Tyler Owen Griffin was born on June 4, 1990, and grew up in Voluntown, Connecticut, a small rural community that shaped his strong sense of duty, loyalty, and resilience. From an early age, Tyler spoke openly about his goal of becoming a United States Marine. Family members and friends recalled that his desire to serve was never a phase or passing idea — it was a clear and consistent ambition rooted in respect for the military and a belief in service to something greater than himself.

Tyler attended Griswold High School, where he was known for his work ethic, quiet determination, and strong bond with teammates and classmates. He played football, took pride in physical training, and prepared himself mentally and physically for the challenges he knew awaited him. Even before enlisting, Tyler trained relentlessly, running local roads and maintaining Marine-level discipline, often raising a Marine Corps flag outside his home as a visible statement of his commitment.

Following his graduation in 2008, Tyler fulfilled his lifelong dream by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He completed recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, earning the title of Marine as a member of Platoon 2086, Golf Company. Those who trained alongside him described a young Marine who took his responsibilities seriously and carried himself with maturity beyond his years.

Upon completion of training, Lance Corporal Griffin was assigned as a rifleman with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, headquartered at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. In early 2010, his unit deployed to Afghanistan, operating in Helmand Province, one of the most dangerous and heavily contested regions of the conflict.

On April 1, 2010, while conducting combat operations in support of coalition forces during Operation Enduring Freedom, LCpl Griffin was killed in action when his unit was struck by an enemy improvised explosive device (IED). He was 19 years old. His death marked the loss of a Marine who had barely begun his adult life yet fully embodied the values of honor, courage, and commitment.

The impact of Tyler’s sacrifice resonated far beyond the battlefield. In recognition of his service, Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell ordered state flags lowered to half-staff, honoring his sacrifice on behalf of the people of Connecticut. His life and service were also formally recognized in the United States Congressional Record, ensuring his name and story were preserved at the national level as part of the permanent legislative history of the United States.

Tyler was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery, fulfilling his expressed wish to be buried alongside fellow service members who gave their lives in defense of the nation. His interment among America’s fallen stands as a lasting symbol of his devotion to duty and his place in the lineage of Marines who answered the call without hesitation.

Beyond his uniform, Tyler Griffin was remembered by his family and community as a young man of deep loyalty, humility, and resolve. He was a son, a brother, a teammate, a Marine — and a reminder of the profound cost carried by small towns across America during wartime. Voluntown, Connecticut, continues to honor his memory, ensuring that his name is not simply remembered, but understood.

United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Tyler Owen Griffin lived with purpose, served with honor, and gave his life in service to his country. His legacy is permanent — in stone, in record, and in memory.

Service Summary

Branch: United States Marine Corps
Rank: Lance Corporal
Military Occupational Specialty: Rifleman
Unit: 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force
Duty Station: Camp Lejeune, North Carolina
Deployment: Afghanistan
Operation: Operation Enduring Freedom
Killed in Action: April 1, 2010
Location: Helmand Province, Afghanistan
Interment: Arlington National Cemetery

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