Colin Ismail Arslanbas was born on May 19, 2001 in Ormond Beach, Florida to Evren and Nicole Arslanbas. He grew up in O'Fallon, Missouri where he met his future wife Gracen, in 4th grade. They reconnected when he asked her to attend the Marine Corps Ball in 2022. They were married on February 18, 2023.
Colin was a 2019 graduate of Fort Zumwalt West High School.
Private First Class Arslanbas enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on March 16, 2020. He reported to MCRD San Diego. After completion of Basic Training he went on to the Infantry Training Battalion at the School of Infantry West. Upon the completion of entry level training, PFC Arslanbas reported to the Basic Reconnaissance Course (BRC) where he was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal and earned the Reconnaissance Marine Military Occupational Specialty Code, 0321.
After completing BRC, Lance Corporal Arslanbas continued on to his insert schools pipeline to include Army Airborne School, Military Free-fall School, and SERE School. Following the insert schools pipeline Lance Corporal Arslanbas was assigned to 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, Alpha Company, where he was promoted to the rank of Corporal on May 1, 2022. During the Alpha Company Marine Expeditionary Unit work up, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant on April 1, 2024. Sergeant Arslanbas is currently filling the billet of ARTO in Team 1, 2nd Platoon.
Sergeant Arslanbas's personal awards include The Global War on Terrorism Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal. He was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal posthumously.
Colin is survived by his wife, Gracie; his unborn daughter; his mother, Nicole; his father, Evren; his brother, Cole; his sister, Caroline, and many other family members.
Colin was known for his warm smile and infectious sense of humor. He lived life to the fullest, always ready to embrace new adventures and faced life head-on. With his boisterous laughter and inability to whisper, Colin brought joy to everyone around him, even in the most challenging moments. His knack for finding humor could be counted on to lighten the mood and generate encouragement. Colin is deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.
