Marine Dies During Trip From Ellen DeGeneres; TV Host Offers Support, Condolences
What was supposed to be a fun vacation turned out to be fatal for a Marine and his wife, who were enjoying a free trip to Australia, courtesy of TV host Ellen DeGeneres. Now the incident is under investigation and DeGeneres has issued a statement offering her sincere care and concern for the Marine's widow.
Cherilyn McGraw was in attendance at DeGeneres' show when she won a trip to Australia. She and husband, Gunnery Sgt. Brandon decided to go sky-diving while on vacation. Cherilyn chose to jump with an instructor, known as a tandem jump, while Brandon wanted to go solo. Being a Marine, he was familiar with sky-diving and so made the leap.
Unfortunately, something went horribly wrong during Brandon's jump, and his parachute caused him to veer to the right and left before finally leading to a collapse from approximately 300 feet above ground. Brandon was pronounced dead at the scene.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
"My hero. My angel. These are truly such symbolic photos," Cherilyn posted on Facebook after Brandon's death. "He was happy and doing what he loved. It's amazing all that photos can capture in a moment's time. The last 2 photos taken. I love you more than anything in the world, honey. You are the most amazing man…"
DeGeneres released a statement to Us Weekly after learning of Brandon's death and said that she's been speaking with Cherilyn.
"My staff has been in touch with her as well. She's asked us to help keep this private as she tries to deal with this unimaginable tragedy. I hope everyone respects that," DeGeneres added.
The couple lived in North Carolina and Brandon served at Camp Lejeune as a gunnery sergeant and critical skills operator.
"I'm beyond honored and words will never be able to express my gratitude for all the love, support, and prayers," Cherilyn posted to Facebook. "You all have kept me SO strong."
