(Poughkeepsie, NY) -- A Marine from Dutchess County was among those killed in a mid-air crash last week.
36 year old Major James Brophy of Staatsburg died when two planes collided during a refueling exercise off the coast of Japan. He was assigned to the Marine Aerial Refuel Transport Squadron 152. Five other soldiers died, one Marine survived the crash.
Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro says Major Brophy defended our nation and our liberty and will forever be remembered as an American hero. Molinaro has ordered that flags on all county government buildings remain at half-staff in honor of Major Brophy.
From the U.S. Marine Corps: "Maj. James M. Brophy served 12 years in the Marine Corps. His decorations include the Air Medal with two Strike Flight Awards, one Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and one Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. He is survived by his wife, son and daughter."
Photo: Win McNamee-Getty Images