Today, we remember and honor the life of Jay Tirona Collado, who tragically left this world on February 20, 2006, at the age of 31. Jay was a beloved husband, devoted father, cherished son, and esteemed United States Marine;
Born in Columbia, South Carolina, Jay’s spirit dedication to serving his country was unwavering. He joined the Marine Corps in 1994 and bravely deployed to Iraq multiple times, embodying the values of honor, courage, and commitment.
Jay served as the Intelligence Chief at Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267, part of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force from Camp Pendleton. He volunteered to deploy as the intelligence chief of a military transition team MITT-0841 assigned to the Army’s 4th Infantry Division. Stationed in Karbala, Iraq, this team of 10 Marines would train Iraqi army and police forces.
On February 20, 2006, SSgt Collado was driving members of his team to train members of the 1st. Battalion, 4th Brigade, 8th Iraqi Division. Disaster struck only 300 yards away from the battalion headquarters. A deadly IED known as an explosively formed projectile ripped through the vehicle. These terrifying weapons are designed to penetrate the armor of U.S. military vehicles. Their Humvee sustained catastrophic damage to its front and was then thrown into a drainage canal. He died instantly.
Jay leaves behind a legacy of bravery, sacrifice, and love. He is deeply missed by his wife, Judy Collado, his daughter, Kaiya Collado of Oceanside, his parents, Florante and Teresita Collado of Columbia, S.C., his sister, Annadelaide Collado of Columbia, S.C., and countless friends, comrades, and loved ones.
Though Jay may no longer be with us in person, his memory lives on in our hearts forever. We honor his courage, his dedication, and his profound impact on all who knew him. Rest in peace, dear friend. You will never be forgotten.
Survivors include his wife, Judy Collado; daughter, Kaiya Collado of Oceanside; parents, Florante and Teresita Collado of Columbia, S.C.; and sister, Annadelaide Collado of Columbia, S.C.
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