Our Story
Blaine and Ashley’s Love Story
Blaine and Ashley met in the Spring of 2014 during Blaine's time stationed at MCAS Beaufort, SC, while Ashley was a college student at Georgia Southern University. They instantly connected, and despite the distance when Ashley returned to school, they made it work, visiting each other every weekend. In May 2015, before Blaine left for Marine Security Guard training, he surprised Ashley with a proposal at the place where they had their first date, and before he could even finish asking, she said yes!
Blaine completed the program and had assignments in Africa and China, before eventually returning to the MSG headquarters in Quantico, VA. During this time, Ashley completed her undergrad and was surprised by Blaine flying back to see her graduate with honors. They continued to support each other even through 14-hour time differences. In March 2018, they moved in together, got married, adopted their dog Bentley, and enjoyed being together after months apart. In March 2019, they moved to Camp Pendleton, CA, where Blaine returned to the 1371 lifestyle at 1st CEB. Everything was a brand-new adventure!
A Hero Till the End
On September 8, 2021, Blaine, Ashley, and their dog Bentley were driving back to Camp Pendleton when their fifth-wheel trailer suffered a blowout. Blaine pulled over to the side of the I-5 freeway and called highway patrol. While they waited for a tow truck, they noticed that traffic was increasing and another vehicle had also suffered a flat tire. Suddenly, a semi-truck came barreling through traffic and struck the small white vehicle. Blaine turned to Ashley and yelled, "Run!" He then pushed her to safety.
Blaine was struck by the semi-truck and suffered life-threatening injuries. Ashley woke up in an embankment near the scene and crawled over to where police and emergency services were already on the scene. She had internal bleeding, a broken back, road rash, and a traumatic brain injury. Police were able to relay messages of “I love you” between the two.
Blaine was life-flighted to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center and Ashley was taken by ambulance. Bentley miraculously survived without any injuries. Fellow Marines and family arrived as soon as soon as they could. Blaine passed away four days later, but he was able to save lives by heroically donating his organs to those in need. Blaine is survived by his wife, father-in-law Andrew Miller, mother-in-law Kimberly Miller, brother-in-law Robert Miller of South Carolina.
From Pain to Passion
Hear Directly From Ashley
“After the accident, I was lost and didn't know what to do. I am grateful for the support of my CACO, GySgt Sandel, and fellow Marines who helped me through this difficult time. The Semper Fi & America's Fund and TAPS Survivor Support also provided me with essential support.
The Semper Fi & America's Fund gave me financial assistance and helped me get back on my feet. I lost almost everything in the accident, so this support was invaluable. TAPS provided me with emotional support, checking in on me regularly, providing mental health resources, and caring for my well-being.
I was at my darkest place after losing Blaine, and I didn't see a reason to continue on without him. Without the love and support of these two organizations and the Marines who have supported me, I would not be the person I am today. The Gunny Hal Foundation was created to provide similar support to others who are going through trying times.”