Colin Ismail Arslanbas

United States Marine Corps Sergeant Colin Ismail Arslanbas tragically lost his life on April 18, 2024, during a training accident during a High-Altitude High-Opening (HAHO) jump.

Arslanbas was born in May of 2001, in Ormond Beach, Florida. As the eldest of three siblings, he enjoyed playing Lego Star Wars with his younger brother and later sharing his playful enthusiasm for mock battles with his sister. A devoted big brother, he enjoyed playful wrestling and showcasing his moves to his family. Arslanbas was known for his adventurous spirit, evident in his enjoyable summers at the YMCA Camp, often bringing home natural treasures like frogs. He deeply valued his large group of friends and spent many days engaged in neighborhood games or socializing at the local basketball courts. Sports played a pivotal role in Arslanbas’ early life, participating in travel baseball and swimming at the neighborhood pool. These formative experiences paved the way for his work in high school as a swim coach and camp counselor. He excelled in this capacity, fostering a positive and engaging environment that was highly valued by the children. Arslanbas’ enthusiastic approach and personalized attention made learning enjoyable and significantly enhanced the children’s confidence and enthusiasm for swimming.

Following a single semester of college, in March 2020 Arslanbas enlisted in the Marine Corps. His decision was initially motivated by a simple, yet pragmatic aspiration: to be compensated for maintaining peak physical fitness. However, Arslanbas’s inherent drive and adventurous spirit quickly steered him toward the challenging path of becoming a Reconnaissance Marine. This elite role appealed to his desire for high-stakes opportunities, such as the specialized training and operations involving advanced skills like military freefall (skydiving) and combat scuba diving. Arslanbas possessed immense pride in his designation as a Recon Marine and consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to self-improvement, always striving to be the best possible version of a Marine, yet he remained humble and rarely spoke of his accomplishments. Throughout his dedicated service, Arslanbas was recognized for his commitment and conduct, earning several prestigious military decorations. These included the Global War on Terrorism Medal, the National Defense Medal, and the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal. In a final, solemn tribute to his extraordinary service and sacrifice, Arslanbas was posthumously awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal.

Arslanbas met his future wife, Gracen in the 4th grade. They lived just a street apart and quickly became close friends, spending their afternoons playing until sunset and emailing constantly. Though a bit shy initially, Arslanbas consistently made Gracen laugh, and she always found him endearing. While their childhood holds many cherished memories, their adult romance truly defined their connection. Arslanbas reached out to Gracen on her 21st birthday, persistently asking her to accompany him to the Marine Corps Ball, that was seven months away. Their daily conversations continued, and in May, he invited her to visit him in North Carolina. That first trip marked the beginning of their life together, and just three short months later, Gracen moved halfway across the country. The following February, they celebrated their bond with an intimate beach wedding, joined only by their parents and siblings—a truly magical day. They share an enviable connection, finding joy in every moment, from routine grocery trips to unexpected four-hour airport delays. Arslanbas had a remarkable ability to make the most out of any situation.

To honor her husband, Gracen has hosted a Memorial Golf Tournament the past two Novembers and intends to continue this annually. She also hopes to establish a foundation or scholarship to carry on Arslanbas’ legacy. Gracen consciously carries his legacy forward in her daily life—whether by singing his favorite songs, wearing his clothes, driving his truck, making his favorite meals, choosing his preferred purple cup over the white one, or celebrating Halloween as Star Wars characters, among countless other acts of remembrance.

Leaving behind a lasting legacy, Arslanbas is characterized by his ability to make everyone around him feel genuinely valued and uplifted. He was a truly exceptional friend—a thoughtful listener who offered measured, insightful advice when requested. He possessed a unique gift for making others feel like the most important person in the room, assuring them that their contributions were truly valued. Fundamentally, he approached life with an embracing lightheartedness, valuing flexibility and fluidity, which allowed him to live fully and authentically. His presence left an imprint on every life he touched, one that time will not erase.

United States Marine Corps Sergeant Colin Ismail Arslanbas is survived by his wife, Gracen, and their precious daughter, Margot.The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided the Arslanblas family with a mortgage-free home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.