Rylee McCollum

On August 26th, 2021, United States Marine Rylee McCollum was killed in action on his first deployment to Afghanistan when the Hamid Karzai International Airport was bombed amid evacuation efforts. The incident killed 12 other United States service members, and over 100 Afghan civilians.

McCollum was born on February 26th, 2001 in Riverton, Wyoming and was raised in Jackson, Wyoming. He discovered a love for wrestling at a young age and was known for his hard work and dedication to the sport, always wanting to learn and improve. It was through wrestling that he met some of his lifelong friends.

His family recalls that it was McCollum’s calling to serve his country. McCollum enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on his 18th birthday and graduated Marine Corps Boot Camp at Camp Pendleton on December 6th, 2019. Shortly after, McCollum was deployed to Jordan in April of 2021 with the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines.

After his graduation from boot camp, McCollum met the woman who would become his wife, Jiennah. They were married on Valentines’ day of 2021, and were expecting their first child soon after McCollum deployed to the Middle East. McCollum’s daughter, Levi Rylee Rose McCollum, was born on September 13th, 2021; three weeks after the death of her father.

McCollum is remembered for his patriotism and love for his country. His family recalls that he was destined for a life of service. Friends and family remember his vibrant personality, compassion for others, and incredible sense of humor.

United States Marine Rylee McCollum is survived by his wife, Jiennah, and daughter, Levi.