Oklahoman dies during Operation Iraqi Freedom training mission

Thursday, October 6th 2005, 9:45 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- An Oklahoma sailor loses his life during a training operation in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in the Central Arabian Gulf, the Department of Defense said.

Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian K. Joplin, 32, was involved in a mission aboard a Navy MH-53 Sea Dragon helicopter when he fell out of the aircraft, officials said late Wednesday.

"Brian was a very private person, but he was a very loving person," said his aunt, Gin Young of Hugo.

Joplin was born and raised in Hugo, but most recently lived in Corpus Christi, Texas, Young said.

Young said she last saw Joplin at the funeral for his mother and sister, who recently died in an auto accident.

"I know he was very proud to be in the service," Young said.

Joplin was assigned to the Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 15, which is based in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Young said her nephew was married and had two children.