A Marine Corps drill instructor assigned to Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island was found dead in her apartment on July 17, marking the second death involving a Parris Island drill instructor in just two months.

The Marine Corps confirmed the death while emphasizing that the investigation remains ongoing.

Sgt. Darilyn C. Duong was discovered in her apartment in Port Royal, South Carolina, just north of the famed recruit training installation.

She was 25 years old and served as a drill instructor with the 3rd Recruit Training Battalion.

Officials have not released a cause of death, and Marine Corps representatives say investigators are still working to determine exactly what happened.

Until that process is complete, the service is withholding additional details.

Marine spokesperson 2nd Lt. Joshua Hartley addressed the loss in a statement released after Duong's death was confirmed.

The service also asked for privacy for her family and fellow Marines during the investigation.

“The Marine Corps extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends and fellow Marines affected by this loss,” Hartley said.

“At this time, it would be premature to speculate on the circumstances or results of the investigation. ... Out of respect for the Marine’s family and loved ones, no additional details will be released at this time.”

Duong was originally from Winnebago, Nebraska, and built her Marine Corps career after first enlisting as a Food Service Specialist.

She later earned the demanding role of drill instructor, one of the Corps' most respected and challenging leadership positions.

As a drill instructor, Duong was responsible for shaping new Marines during the demanding recruit training process at Parris Island.

The assignment requires long hours, strict discipline, and a significant commitment to developing the next generation of Marines.

Her military record included several notable awards recognizing both her service and conduct.

Among them were the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, two Good Conduct Medals, and the National Defense Service Medal.

The tragedy comes only weeks after another Parris Island drill instructor was found dead under separate circumstances. That earlier incident also remains a recent reminder of the losses that have affected the installation.

On May 30, Sgt. Albert Haynes II, 24, was found dead in a hotel room in Starke, Florida. He had been staying there while attending a poolee event with U.S. Marine Corps Recruiting Station Jacksonville.

The deaths of two drill instructors within such a short period have drawn attention because of their timing, although Marine Corps officials have not indicated that the cases are connected.

At present, each incident is being handled according to its own investigative process.

Duong was single and had no dependents, according to information released by the Marine Corps. Beyond confirming her identity, service history, and awards, officials have declined to release further personal details out of respect for her loved ones.

As investigators continue their work, the Marine Corps has maintained that speculation would be inappropriate until the facts are established.

For now, the service is focused on supporting those affected by the loss while awaiting the results of the official investigation.

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