Parris Island drill instructor found dead in apartment

Published Jul 23, 11:57 PM UTC

Sgt. Darilyn C. Duong, a 25-year-old drill instructor assigned to Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, was found dead in her apartment in Port Royal, South Carolina, on July 17, 2026. The cause of death is under investigation, and the Marine Corps has extended condolences to her family and fellow Marines. Duong, a native of Winnebago, Nebraska, served with the 3rd Recruit Training Battalion and was single with no dependents. She enlisted as a Food Service Specialist before becoming a drill instructor. Her awards include the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, two Good Conduct Medals, and the National Defense Service Medal. This marks the second death of a Parris Island drill instructor in two months; Sgt. Albert Haynes II was found dead in a Florida hotel room on May 30, 2026.