Missing Hingham Marine Declared Dead

A Hingham resident who was among 12 Marines involved in a helicopter crash in Hawaii has been declared dead.

Cpl. Christopher Orlando went missing last Thursday when two Marine helicopters collided near the north shore of Oahu. The change of status from missing to deceased was made Wednesday, according to CBS News. The families of the deceased Marines have been notified of the status change.

The town has united in support of the Orlando family since news of the incident. Across town, residents and businesses have raised blue star banners for Orlando. On Sunday, residents gathered at the community center to make red and gold ribbons.

“As the Town’s Director of Veterans Services I am confident in stating that all the Veterans of Hingham are deeply saddened by this tragedy,” Hingham Veterans Service Officer Keith Jermyn said in a statement. “Each of us who have had the privilege of donning the uniform of this great Nation can attest that the profession we have chosen is wrought with inherent dangers.”

Residents can also purchase a flag in memory of Orlando as part of the Flags for Soldiers campaign.