Press release attributable to Captain Marco Valenzuela, MAG-12 spokesman:

Sergeant Tyler M. Rankin, 24, from Kansas City, Missouri was declared deceased July 5, 2020 after going missing on July 2, 2020 off the coast of Hamada Beach in Shimane Prefecture, Japan. Search and rescue operations by the Japanese Coast Guard and local authorities were immediately dispatched on July 2 and successfully recovered the Marine’s remains on the evening of July 5.

“VMGR-152 “Sumos” mourn the loss of their brother at arms, Sergeant Tyler Rankin”, said Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Kocab, commanding officer of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152. “Sergeant Rankin was a true leader within the squadron, a subject matter expert within his field, and a great friend to many. We send our heartfelt condolences to all of Tyler’s family and close friends and will never forget the impact he left on all of us.”

Sergeant Rankin was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and served as a fixed wing aircraft mechanic with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. He joined the Marine Corps in 2014 and his awards include the Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.