Marine who died in Hawaii boating accident identified

HONOLULU, March 7 (UPI) -- The U.S. Marine who died in a recreational boating accident in Hawaii last week was identified as Sgt. Jaylon T. Walker of Garland, Texas.

Marine Corps Base Hawaii publicly identified Walker, 24, after notifying his relatives. He served as an Aircraft Electronic Communications System Technician with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 24, Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing stationed at the base on Kaneohe Bay.

Walker, a Marine since 2011, drowned after his 17-foot boat overturned early Saturday in waters off the northern side of the base; two other men aboard swam to shore, but Walker was found by the Honolulu Fire Department in 30 feet of water, not breathing, unconscious and without a pulse.

"We are saddened by the loss of one of our Marines, but are deeply grateful for the efforts of the Honolulu Fire Department and Coast Guard in this matter," said Marine Corps spokesman Chuck Little.