Marine killed in training accident graduated from Hazel Park High School

HAZEL PARK — A tragic accident recently occurred during a military training exercise, killing a 2018 graduate of Hazel Park High School. 

Sgt. Matthew Bylski died in a vehicle rollover Dec. 12 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, located in Oceanside, Calif., according to a statement by the Marine Corps. 

A native of Royal Oak, Bylski joined the Marines in January 2019 and trained as an amphibious combat vehicle crewman assigned to Battalion Landing Team 1/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. He served as a vehicle commander. 

Amy Kruppe, superintendent of the Hazel Park Public Schools district, recalled him fondly. 

“It was my honor to know and watch Matt here in Hazel Park,” Kruppe said. “He was an incredibly kind, smart and dedicated young man. As a student, athlete and person, we are proud to call him a Viking.”

She added that during his time at Hazel Park High School, Bylski was in the school band and that he also played on both the football and baseball teams.

During his four years in the Marines, Bylski achieved such distinctions as the Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, and two Navy and Marine Corps achievement medals.

According to the Marines, the amphibious combat vehicle rollover occurred during training with 14 other Marines. At the time the statement was issued on Dec. 14, one of the Marines remained at the hospital in good condition and the others had been treated and released. The vehicle was making a ground movement when the accident occurred. 

The Marine Corps is still investigating the incident. In a statement, Col. Sean Dynan, commanding officer of the 15th MEU, offered his condolences. 

“Words fail to express our sorrow at the tragic loss of Sgt. Bylski: an outstanding Marine and a leader within his platoon,” Dynan stated. “The MEU — the Marines who lived, trained and learned from Sgt. Bylski — mourn alongside his family and friends. The entire 15th MEU ‘Vanguard’ family is affected by his absence.” 

Call Staff Writer Andy Kozlowski at (586) 498-1046.