U.S. Marine Sergeant Aubrey D. Williams was pronounced dead after an apparent drowning accident at Maeda Point, Onna Village, Kunagami District, Okinawa at approximately 3:40 p.m. Saturday, October 29.
Williams served as a UH-1 Helicopter Crew Chief for Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force.   

 Williams was deployed to 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force in Okinawa. Williams is survived by his wife and three children.   

"HMLA-469 is deeply saddened by Sgt Williams' passing," said Lt. Col Robert J. Weingart, commanding officer of HMLA-469. "He was a devoted husband and father, as well as a mentor to the Marines around him. The entire squadron mourns his loss."

 Williams, from Illinois, enlisted in the Marine Corps on September 22, 2012. His duty stations prior to HMLA-469, Camp Pendleton, California include: HMLA-467, Cherry Point, NC; Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Yuma, AZ.   

 His awards and decorations include the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Korean Defense Service Medal, and the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal (2).   

 An investigation is being conducted to determine the exact cause of the accident. The Marine Corps is focused on taking care of our Marines and their families.   

 One way we ensure families receive everything they need is to keep them personally updated in the aftermath of incidents,   

and to give them time before making the announcement public.

 We ask that media please respect their privacy during this challenging time.   

 A command level investigation is underway regarding the Marine's death. There is no more information available at this time.