Steven Hancock - U.S. Military - died in tragic training accident

Steven Hancock

Marine Steven Hancock, age 20, died in the line of duty on May 19, 2014, about 45 miles west of Marine Corps Air Station New River, near Jacksonville, North Carolina.

Steven was a member of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, based in North Carolina. He was a crew chief.

Steven and other Marines were on an evening training exercise in a helicopter. For some unknown reason, Steven fell out of the cargo door of the aircraft. His body was not discovered on the ground until the next day.

Crew and passengers on these missions are supposed to be buckled in. No explanation is given as to why the cargo door is kept open during flights. The cause of the tragedy is under investigation. 

Steven was originally from Coal City, Illinois. He was a 2011 graduate of Coal City High School.

He enlisted in the Marines in March of 2012 as a private first class. He graduated from boot camp in San Diego in June of 2012.

He had stated that he always wanted to fly and to serve his country. He was proud to

Father, place Steven on the stairway
to Heaven

be a United States Marine.

Friends describe Steven as an awesome kid with a sense of humor. He was fun to be around and had a welcoming personality.

Steven's military comrades are in mourning over his death. He will be forever remembered.

Steven's family are devastated by his sudden and tragic death. He will be forever mourned.

Steven is survived by many loving comrades, friends and relatives including his parents Mike and Sue Hancock; and his sister, Mallory.

Thank you for serving, Steven.

Pray for all who die by misadventure. They are with us one moment and are gone before we can say goodbye.

Pray that Steven is in heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.