Daniel G. McCollum
Military Branch: Marine Corps; Rank: Capt
Summary:
Capt McCollum was born on December 6, 1973, in Tallahassee, Florida. He spent his early childhood in Beaufort, SC, and later moved to Columbia, SC.
Capt McCollum was commissioned in January of 1997 through the PLC program. In April 1997, he reported to Quantico, VA, for The Basic School. Upon graduation from TBS, he reported to flight training at NAS Pensacola, FL, followed by advanced flight training at Corpus Christi, TX. He earned his wings in July of 1999. His next duty station was VMGRT-253 at MCAS Cherry Point, NC. Here he began his initial training in the KC-130. He then reported to VMGR-352 where he completed his RP training and was designated a T3P. Capt McCollum worked as an adjutant and was the first officer in VMGR-352 to become a martial arts instructor. Capt McCollum accumulated over 500 flight hours and flew in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
He was part of the Irmo wrestling team (runner up state champion). He was also part of the Clemson Wrestling Team (walk-on)
Life Achievements/ Recognitions:
Daniel graduated from the University with a degree in mechanical engineering in December 1996 and promptly received his commission from the Marines, with whom he had been training since 1993.
Daniel was married on May 26, 2001 in Quantico, VA and moved with his wife to California to start their family. His son was born six months after he died.
Daniel Graduated from Irmo High School in 1992.
Outstanding Cadet, Irmo AFJROTC.
He was an Eagle Scout.
Daniel had a black belt in karate and was a USMC Martial Arts instructor.
Daniel passed the South Carolina Engineering-in-Training Exam.
He was awarded 1 of only 2 Marine pilot training slots available to SC.
Daniel graduated as Marine Officer at Quantico Marine Base.
Commodore's List of US Navy's Flight Training Program.
Winged as a pilot.
Co-pilot of DC-130 refueling plane.
Daniel flew 58 missions over Afghanistan.