JONATHAN B. NOLAN, LT, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LT Jonathan Nolan, USN '91 was lost on May 27, 1998, when the F/A-18 Hornet he was piloting crashed during an exercise near Fallon, Nevada. He was a member of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 37, based in Jacksonville, Florida.

From the July-August 1998 edition of Shipmate, via USNA '91:

Jonathan Bennett Nolan was born on 25 August 1969 in Syracuse, NY. A native of Syracuse, he graduated from Christian Brothers High School before entering the Naval Academy. While at the Academy, Jon spent the majority of his time in the halls of "Club 34," until graduating as an Aerospace Engineer in 1991.

After commissioning, Jon was attached to Topgun at NAS Miramar in San Diego, CA. He began his flight training in Pensacola in June 1992, with follow on orders to jet training in Kingsville, TX. He earned his "Wings of Gold" in September of 1994 and was assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 for F/A-18C Hornet training. Jon reported to the "Ragin Bulls" of Strike Fighter Squadron 37 at Naval Air Station, Cecil Field, FL in September 1995. Assigned as the Avionics/Armament Division Officer, as well as additional duties as Landing Signals Officer, he completed preparations for deployment with VFA-37.

Jon deployed on board Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) in November 1996 for Joint Task Group 97-1 to the Mediterranean Sea, Adriatic Ocean, Red Sea and Persian Gulf. He participated actively in Operation Southern Watch and Determined Guard over the skies of Iraq and Bosnia-Herzegovina. Most notably, he enjoyed every bit of the ten port visits and seven countries.

Jon, or "Bass" as he was known to his fellow pilots, will be deeply missed; but more than that, he will always be remembered - his larger than life attitude, his quick wit, his strong faith in God, his love for flying Hornets around the carrier, his honesty, his meals of Slim Fast and salad, his ability to be a true friend, his willingness to give to others and share in so many ways, and most of all for his many laughs. You lived life to the fullest, my friend, and now for you it's only getting better. Save me a seat. We'll miss you brother! Strapping in, pressing on and keeping the faith, like we know you'd want us to. Your friends . . .

Jon is survived by his parents, Thomas and Patricia of Syracuse, NY; his brothers, Robert, Chris and Kevin and his grandfather, Walter Lewczak.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/JONATHAN_B._NOLAN,_LT,_USN

CHRISTOPHER C. TRAGNA, LCDR, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LCDR Christopher Tragna, USN '91 was lost on April 2, 2002 when the aircraft he was aboard collided with another near Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland. He was an instructor with the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School.

"Tragna, a native of Northport, New York, graduated salutatorian from his high school. Tragna was remembered as a man who loved his wife, the Yankees, wrestling with his dog, Bungee, and flying."

Well over 500 people attended his memorial service. He was survived by his wife, Desiree, parents, brother, half sister, and in-laws.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/CHRISTOPHER_C._TRAGNA,_LCDR,_USN

ROBERT E. CLUKEY, III, LCDR, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LCDR Robert "Trey" Clukey, III, USN '91 was lost on November 3, 2002 when the F/A-18 Hornet he was piloting crashed in the Adriatic Sea during training.

From the January-February 2003 issue of "Shipmate":

Born in Bangor, ME, a native of nearby Orono, "Trey" was a member of the ski patrol, an emergency medical technician, and a state-ranked competitive skier in high school. He received a congressional appointment to the Naval Academy from Senator William Cohen of Maine. At the Naval Academy, Trey earned a bachelor of science degree in oceanography and was a member of the offshore sailing team. He graduated in May 1991, a member of the 30th Company.

Trey attended flight training in Pensacola, FL, and Kingsville, TX, and was designated a naval aviator in September 1994. In October, he reported to VMFAT-101 at MCAS El Toro, CA, for FA-18 Hornet training. In November 1995 he reported to VFA-113 the "Stingers" in Lamoore, CA. During this tour, Trey completed two deployments to the Persian Gulf on Carl Vinson (CVN-70) and Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), flying 38 combat missions in support of operations Southern Watch and Desert Strike. He was awarded the Strike/Flight Air Medal for his actions in these operations.

Call sign "Plumbr," Trey was selected to become a strike fighter tactical instructor in October 1998. He completed the Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor training course at Top Gun in Fallon, NV and was assigned to the Strike Fighter Weapons School, Atlantic in February 1999. While at the Weapons School, he served as the weapons and tactics coordinator and was the air-to-ground employment subject matter expert for the East Coast Hornet community.

In August 2001, Trey reported to VFA-34, the "Blue Blasters," as the tactics officer and deployed on George Washington (CVN-73) in June 2002. While on deployment, Trey completed 20 combat missions over Southern Iraq and Afghanistan in support of operations Southern Watch and Enduring Freedom. He also conducted missions in operation Deliberate Forge/Decisive Guardian in support of NATO peacekeeping in Bosnia. In September 2002 he was awarded his second Strike/Flight Air Medal.

Trey is survived by his parents, Robert E. Clukey Jr. and Francis H. Clukey of Bangor, ME; and two sisters, Robin Clukey of Carmel, ME, and Christina Clukey of Bangor, ME.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/ROBERT_E._CLUKEY,_III,_LCDR,_USN

ANTHONY R. DOMINO, LCDR, USNR

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LCDR Anthony "Tony" Domino, USNR '91 was lost on April 18, 2003 when the F-5E Tiger II jet he was piloting crashed near Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada.

From the September 2003 issue of Shipmate:

Tony was the oldest of four brothers growing up on his parents' farm in Middletown, DE. Growing up, his interests included the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and helping with his father's standard bred horses.

At the Naval Academy, Tony distinguished himself on the football field, starting three years as on outside linebacker, wearing number 60. Off the field, he was known for high-speed runs to Ocean City, MD, in his red Corvette. His parents were also well known for taking in more than a few hungry Midshipmen. If you have seen the size of Tony and his brothers you know the Dominos took a few extra hungry mouths in stride.

After graduation Fats reported to flight training. Going the Corpus Christi/Kingsville route, he was Winged in 1993 with orders to the Tomcat FRS. After completing Tomcat training, he was sent to the Jolly Rogers of VF-103 where he supported missions in Bosnia-Herzegovina as well as Operation Southern Watch in Iraq. His next assignment was to the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center, working in the Air Wing Training Department. There, he served as an adversary mission commander, as well as an air-to-air/air-to-ground tactics instructor. In 2001 Fats left active duty and joined the Fighting Saints of VFC-13 at NAS Fallon as an adversary instructor pilot. Fats was also a commercial airline pilot, flying the Airbus A320 for Jet Blue Airways.

Lieutenant Commander Domino's awards included two Strike/Flight Air Medals, two Armed Forces Service Medals, an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and a NATO Medal.

Funeral services were held on 28 April 2003. The small church in Delaware City, DE, was filled beyond capacity, with hundreds of people standing inside and outside the church to pay their last respects. Attendees included Delaware Senator Joseph Biden, who gave Fats his nomination to the Naval Academy and continued to follow his career. Lieutenant Commander Anthony Domino was buried with full military honors including a fly-by of four F-14s from ComFitWingLant. With his death we have lost a great friend, brother, son, and wingman. Those who knew him have all commented on his gregarious spirit, outgoing nature, and love of life.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/ANTHONY_R._DOMINO,_LCDR,_USNR

SCOTT A. ZELLEM, LCDR, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LCDR Scott Zellem, USN '91 was lost on August 10, 2004 when the S-3B Viking jet he was piloting crashed on the island of Kita Iwo Jima, Japan, during a training flight from USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Three others aboard were also killed; they were members of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 35.

Scott was remembered by his roommate as "one of the most likable guys ever to come to USNA." A member of the football team in high school and at the Academy, he excelled at both places and earned his Naval Aviator's wings in 1992. He flew the A-6 Intruder and the S-3B Viking, had more than 540 carrier landings, and flew several combat missions in 2003 as a part of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

He was survived by his wife, Jennifer; son Tanner (1 year old); parents Sally and Theodore; a brother, Edward; and a sister, Millie Cathcart.

President Bush, in a letter to Tanner in August 2004: "I had the privilege of flying with your father Scott on May 1, 2003. He was a strong, brave man who defended our nation and protected our freedom. I'm proud to have been his commander in chief."

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/SCOTT_A._ZELLEM,_LCDR,_USN

MARIO D. CARAZO, LTCOL, USMC

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

From the September-October 2010 issue of "Shipmate":

Lieutenant Colonel Mario “Sugarbear” Carazo, USMC, ‘91 was lost to enemy action in Afghanistan, on 22 July 2010. His AH-1W Cobra was shot down while supporting Marines engaged in a firefight. He was 41 years old.

Born on 25 May 1969 in Inglewood, CA, to Alvaro and Ana Carazo, Mario entered the Academy where he graduated in 1991, with a B.S. in history, as a member of the 19th Company.

Mario went on to fly the AH-1W Cobra with the World Famous HMLA-369 “Gunfighters” at Camp Pendleton, CA. He did two Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) deployments, followed by a tour as an instructor at the Fleet Replenishment Squadron. He attended the Amphibious Warfare School in Quantico, VA, and then went back to Camp Pendleton for another tour as a “Gunfighter.” “Sugarbear” attended the United States Naval War College, Newport, RI, as a Major, where he received a M.A. in national security and strategy. He was not satisfied with one M.A., so he attended the School of Advanced Warfighting in Quantico and received his second in Operational Studies.

He took this newly found knowledge, and as only he could do, applied it on another deployment—in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in December 2007 and returned from Iraq in August 2008 to Camp Pendleton, becoming the executive officer of MAG-39, and ultimately the commanding officer of Headquarters Squadron 39. He then deployed to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Mario spent his life focusing on taking care of the people in his life. There was always the “Sugarbear” smile to pick you up, or the “What’s going on, kid,” to begin a bull session, but there was the certainty that he would do whatever was possible to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone he cared about—his family, both immediate and extended.

He is survived by his wife, Jennifer; their son, Mario, and daughter, Milla; his parents, Alvaro and Ana; his brother and two sisters, Alvaro, Ana, Sandra and their families. Mario was interred with full military honors and an AH-1W fly-over at the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in San Diego, CA. The family has established an education fund for the children, “Carazo Education Fund,” at California Bank & Trust, 1127 Wall Street, La Jolla, CA 92037.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/MARIO_D._CARAZO,_LTCOL,_USMC

DAVID E. BERGSTROM, LT, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LT David Bergstrom, USN '92 was lost on June 18, 2000 when the F-14 Tomcat he was aboard crashed during a demonstration flight at the Willow Grove Naval Air Station, Pennsylvania. The pilot, classmate LT Bill Dey, was also killed.

A native of Annandale, VA, David graduated from W.T. Woodson High School in 1987. He went on to study at Virginia Tech for a year prior to attending the Naval Academy. His father was also a naval aviator; Dave earned his wings as a Naval Flight Officer in 1994. He deployed twice with his first squadron, Fighter Squadron (VF) 14. In 1999 he returned to the training squadron, Fighter Squadron (VF) 101, as an instructor.

Dave was survived by his parents, Captain James and Catherine Bergstrom; two sisters, Karen and Patty; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/DAVID_E._BERGSTROM,_LT,_USN

WILLIAM J. DEY, LT, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LT William "Bill" Dey, USN '92 was lost on June 18, 2000 when the F-14 Tomcat he was piloting crashed during a demonstration flight at the Willow Grove Naval Air Station, Pennsylvania. His radar intercept officer, classmate LT David Bergsrom, was also killed.

A native of New Jersey, Bill had celebrated his 5th wedding anniversary the night before with Deborah. He was also survived by his 14-month-old daughter, Kamryn, his grandmother Mary, and sister Karin. (Other survivors were not listed.)

His family had attended the air show's rehearsal the day before and saw Bill fly.

Bill had two sides: "The serious, confident pilot and the funny guy who could laugh and joke." "He was wonderful, always there when you needed him," said his sister, Karin Parry, of Souderton. "He excelled at whatever he did.""

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/WILLIAM_J._DEY,_LT,_USN

JASON E. JAKUBOWSKI, LT, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

Quoted in its entirety from USNA '93:

Lieutenant Jason E. Jakubowski, USN, '93 was killed on September 14, 1997, when his F/A-18 went down during a low level training mission in the Middle Eastern country of Oman.

On September 24, 1997, a Memorial Service was held for Jason in the Naval Academy Chapel, followed by a flag presentation ceremony and F/A-18 fly-over at the Columbarium on the Yard at the Naval Academy.

Jason was born on February 25, 1971 in Staten Island, New York. A native of Ashland, Ohio, he graduated from Ashland Senior High School before entering the United States Naval Academy. While at the Academy, Jason was a member of the 31st Company. Jason graduated with Honors from the Academy in May of 1993 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering.

After commencement Jason began his flight training in Pensacola, Florida, with follow on assignment in Meridian, Mississippi. He earned his "Wings of Gold" in November 1995 and was then assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 125 for F/A-18 Hornet training. His outstanding efforts in VFA-125 led to his selection as the Strike Fighter Wing Pacific Replacement Pilot of the Year for 1996.

Jason reported to the "Valions" of Strike Fighter Squadron 15 at Naval Air Station, Cecil Field, Florida in October 1996. Assigned as the Avionics/Armament Division Officer with additional duties as Mining Officer and Landing Signal Officer, he completed preparations for deployment on board JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV-67). Jason deployed with Strike Fighter Squadron 15 in April 1997 for Joint Task Group 97-2 to the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, and Arabian Gulf. He actively participated in operations Deny Flight, and Southern Watch over the skies of Bosnia-Herzegovia and Iraq.

Jason's awards included the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, and numerous other unit awards.

Jason is survived by his wife, Robyn; his parents, Stephen and Linda of Grasonville, Maryland; and his brothers Eric (USNA 1995), Ryan (USNA 1999), and Jared [USNA 2003].

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/JASON_E._JAKUBOWSKI,_LT,_USN

ROBERT W. FALKENBACH, JR., CAPT, USMC

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

Capt. Robert Falkenbach, Jr., USMC '93 was lost on September 16, 1998 when the UH-1 helicopter he was piloting crashed off the coast of San Diego, California.

From USNA '93:

Robby graduated from the Naval Academy from 8th Company, with a Bachelor of Science in Economics on May 26, 1993. Upon graduation, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps. In April 1994, 2nd Lt. Falkenbach was transferred to the Naval Aircraft Training Center, NAS Pensacola FL, for training as a Naval Aviator. He underwent primary and intermediate fixed wing flight training at VT-3, NAS North Whiting Field, Milton, FL. He continued his advanced helicopter flight training at HT-8, NAS South Whiting Field, Milton, FL.

In May 1995, he was promoted to the rank of First Lieutenant. After successfully completing flight school and earning his "Wings of Gold," 1st Lt. Falkenbach was assigned to Marine Helicopter Training Squadron 303, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3D Marine Aircraft Wing, MCAS, Camp Pendleton, CA, for training as a UH-1N (Huey) Pilot. In June 1996, Robby joined the "Stingers" of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267, MAG 39, 3D MAW, Camp Pendleton, CA, where he was assigned as a UH-1N Pilot.

1st Lt. Falkenbach deployed with the "Stingers" to Okinawa, Japan, where he served aboard ship with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit. He was promoted to Captain in August 1997. His decorations include National Defense Service Medal and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.

Capt. Falkenbach is survived by his parents Colonel (Ret.) Bob ('62) and Maureen Falkenbach; three sisters Laura (Major, USMCR, '85), Christine, and Kimberly; five nieces and nephews Laura Rose, Tyler, Christopher, Cora and Hunter; and countless friends.

Robby will always be remembered as a kid and a brother to many. His smile, boundless energy and carefree attitude touched the lives of hundreds and made those around him feel special. "I ain't afraid."

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/ROBERT_W._FALKENBACH,_JR.,_CAPT,_USMC

JACOB J. WIEBE, CAPT, USMC

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

Capt. Jacob Wiebe, USMC '93 was lost on August 22, 2001 when the F/A-18 jet he was piloting crashed near Yuma, Arizona.

Though was born at Naval Air Station Jacksonville and grew up in Orange Park, Florida, he graduated from Fayetteville (Arkansas) High School and identified it as his home. In high school he was on the swim team, president of the Key Club, representative on the student council, and played basketball.

Jacob was survived by his mother and stepfather Judy and Bill Barrett of Middleburg, Florida; his father and stepmother Albert J. Wiebe and Sandra Wiebe of Paradise, Utah; his brother and family Matthew and Cheryl Wiebe, and their three children Jacob, Sarah, and Thomas of Fayetteville, Arkansas; his grandmother Marian Cassidy of Jacksonville, Florida; his half sister Joanna Kuskie of Pennsylvania; his step sister Deni Harbin, and her children Caleb, Hannah, Jared and Sarah of Ogden, Utah; his aunts Gail Williams and Cara Gapinski; his uncles Lieutenant Colonel Bill Cassidy, Lieutenant Colonel Buck Cassidy, Cidd Cassidy, and Carl Cassidy; also numerous cousins.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/JACOB_J._WIEBE,_CAPT,_USMC

D. MICHAEL HILLEGAS, LTJG, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LT(j.g.) D. Michael Hillegas, USN '94 was lost on March 6, 1998 when the helicopter he was aboard crashed in the San Bernardino Mountains, California, while flying from San Diego and Las Vegas. Four others aboard were also killed.

A native of Mission Viejo, California, he graduated from high school in Moorestown, New Jersey. Michael was survived by his parents, sister, and grandparents.

He and the others killed were members of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 47.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/D._MICHAEL_HILLEGAS,_LTJG,_USN

AARON J. BARBOSA, LT, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LT Aaron "AJ" Barbosa, USN '94 was lost on November 19, 1998 when the CH-46 SeaKnight helicopter he was piloting crashed into the Mediterranean Sea near Sicily. An enlisted crewman aboard was also lost. They were engaged in a vertical replenishment of USS Stump (DD 978) from USNS Sirius (T-AFS 8).

From his obituary at USNA '94:

A.J. was born 12 March, 1970, in Detroit, MI and raised in the Phoenix, AZ, area. He spent his youth under the watchful eyes of three sisters and excelled in academics as well as track, football and swimming. He loved to spend his free time expanding his comic book collection or his Star Trek trivia database and dreaming about becoming a pilot. Upon graduation from Phoenix Christian High, A.J. spent two years at Arizona State University while awaiting his acceptance into the Naval Academy so that he may pursue his ultimate goal of becoming a Naval Aviator.

On a typically hot and humid summer day, 3 July 1990, A.J. took his first oath of service to his country and began his career as a Midshipman. Immediately endeared and respected by his plebe classmates for his age and experience, A.J. continued to develop as an inspiration to all he came in contact with. Initially a Systems Engineer, A.J. switched his major to History in order to remain focused on his ultimate goal. This change eventually allowed A.J. the opportunity to engage more leadership responsibility as a senior member of the karate team and as a Deputy Vice Honor Chairman.

After graduating from the Naval Academy, A.J. turned heads at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, as one of the first Ensigns ever to report aboard and proceeded to complete his Masters of Science in Applied Physics in just 18 months. After that brief sidetrack, he was off to Pensacola, FL, again in pursuit of his ultimate goal. On 15 December, 1997, A.J. reached his goal, receiving his "wings of gold" and his orders to Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Three (HC-3) in sunny San Diego, CA. After a few months of training in the SeaKnight airframe, A.J. was directed to report to Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Eight (HC-8) in Norfolk, VA. Upon arrival onboard the Bay Raiders on 2 October, 1998, he was informed of that his new detachment would be deploying in two weeks. Early Monday morning, 19 October, after an all too brief Homecoming weekend in Annapolis filled with great times and close friends, A.J. got underway with the Sirius, excited to be embarking on his first deployment. A Naval Aviator and proud warrior, A.J. remains at sea in service of his country.

A memorial service was held on 24 November at the Naval Air Station Norfolk Chapel. Many friends and shipmates of both men were in attendance. LT Nick Sherrod, A.J.'s Academy roommate of four years, said the following words: "Words cannot express how we feel today at the loss of our friend, our brother. Aaron, A.J. or Haji as he was reverently known by his closet friends, made life worth living. His optimism and beautiful smile helped me and countless others at the Academy to see the light at the end of the tunnel. He was a guy who embraced life and forced us to live it to the fullest. There were nights at the Academy when I would find myself taking plebes out on a recon, streaking across T-court, or simply jumping over the wall for a cold one to blow off steam, only to find A.J. by my side. He was a guy who put people first, who was willing to sacrifice for friends, family, and country, and that is what he has done for us today. While we were here, enjoying the comforts of home, A.J. was out there in the darkness of night, keeping watch over our freedoms. Although he was away, we were with him in spirit. I am just privileged as we all are to have such a friend as Aaron. God has redeemed him for his own."

A.J. is survived by his daughter, Alexandra Jordan, his parents Robert and Carmen, and his sisters Jamie, Gina and Jackie.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/AARON_J._BARBOSA,_LT,_USN

JOEL A. KORKOWSKI, LT, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LT Joel Korkowski, USN '94 was lost on October 18, 2002 when his F/A-18F Super Hornet collided with another over the Pacific Ocean near California. The three other crewmen aboard the two aircraft, including Matt Shubzda '98, were also killed.

A native of Houston, Texas, Joel graduated Clear Lake High School in 1990 and attended the Naval Academy for two years prior to resigning. He then attended and graduated from Texas A&M University, graduating in 1994 with a degree in aerospace engineering.

A family friend said of Joel: "He's not like any kid you could ever meet. He made such a positive impression on everyone around him."

His wife, Kristin, survived him. She was seven months pregnant at the time of his death with their daughter, Skylar. He was also survived by his mother and brother.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/JOEL_A._KORKOWSKI,_LT,_USN

KYLAN A. JONES-HUFFMAN, LT, USNR

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LT Kylan Jones-Huffman, USNR, '94 was lost on August 21, 2003 near Hilah, Iraq, when he was shot by an unidentified gunman while riding in an SUV. He was an intelligence officer and the first mobilized naval reservist to be killed in action in Iraq or Afghanistan.

Kylan was fluent in Arabic, Farsi, French and German, and earned a master's degree in history from the University of Maryland. He had been accepted into the doctorate program in history at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., but had not started.

He grew up in Aptos, Calif. the oldest of three children. His father was a career Army officer. As a teenager, he attended York School, an independent school in Monterey.

A newspaper article reported:

When his parents sold their home to Dr. Larry deGhetaldi, they moved nearby. DeGhetaldi watched Kylan grow up and was so impressed, he named his first son after him. “We found in him a model for what we wanted our own children to be: poise, kindness, honor, an unquenchable thirst for learning, respect and that immediately recognizable spark that really bright young people have.” DeGhetaldi kept finding abandoned toys buried in the front lawn which he called “little time capsules.” “All of him, from the lost plastic toy soldiers in my front lawn, to the haiku focused on Iraqi children selling bayonets for food, (teach) me, (teach) us all to remember the core and the vital humanity in our soldiers.”

He married Heidi Lynn Jones on January 14, 1995 at the York Chapel. They both took the hyphenated name Jones-Huffman. Kylan was survived by her, his parents, and two younger siblings.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/KYLAN_A._JONES-HUFFMAN,_LT,_USNR

SCOTT T. BRACHER, LCDR, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LCDR Scott Bracher, USN '94 was lost on September 21, 2005 when the S-3B Viking jet he was piloting crashed while on approach to Jacksonville Naval Air Station, Florida. The other crewman aboard was also killed.

An accomplished pilot, he was the "Top Hook" five times during overseas deployments. In 2001 he was the landing signals officer of the year for Sea Control Squadron (VS) 32.

He played baseball throughout his childhood and at the Naval Academy. He also recovered from a difficult back surgery and competed in triathlons. He graduated the academy as a member of the 30th Company.

Scott was survived by his parents and a brother.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/SCOTT_T._BRACHER,_LCDR,_USN

FRANK C. WITTWER, LCDR, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LCDR Frank Wittwer, USN '94 was lost on January 18, 2006 when his F/A-18C Hornet crashed during a training flight near Naval Air Station El Centro, California.

One longtime friend said, "He was always concerned about other people's problems and wanted to do what he could to help. Frank was a different kind of person ... Forever positive, ever bright, one of the smartest people I know. Everybody he touched he brightened their life, including mine." Another remembered, "He was phenomenal. He was one of those guys who had every quality that you would want."

Frank was survived by his wife, Melinda and their three children Erin, 7, Abigail, 5, and Jack, 3 months.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/FRANK_C._WITTWER,_LCDR,_USN

BRENDAN J. DUFFY, LT, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

The July/August 1999 issue of Shipmate magazine, quoted in full:

On 8 November 1998, LT Brendan James Duffy '95, posthumously promoted by the President of the United States, was killed during a landing approach when an EA- 6B Prowler, in which he was a crew member, collided with an aircraft in the landing area of ENTERPRISE. Brendan and the other three crew members were killed instantly with only Brendan's body being recovered after his aircraft careened into the sea. Born into a Navy family at NAS Quonset Point, RI in 1971, Brendan spent his early years living in Virginia Beach while his father, Jim ('60), was on duty in that area. As a boy, Brendan enjoyed frequent overnight stays on board INDEPENDENCE in-port when his dad had the CDO Watch and even was allowed to "shoot dead-loads" during aircraft catapult tests. Watching air ops from the Airboss' chair in PRIFLY was another experience that led him to his eventual career choice.

In 1981, after his father was assigned to the USNA faculty, Brendan lived for five years in a lovely old set of quarters on Hospital Point at 3 Wood Road in the Yard. His mother Carolyn made that house a home for numerous visiting Midshipmen, their "drags" and family friends. Brendan named it "Hotel Doofee." Every weekend there were ping-pong and dart tournaments among Brendan, his pals, the Mids, and his two older brothers and sister. Always outsized by his older opponents, the very competitive but always gracious Brendan won more than he lost.

While a close and admired young friend to many of the older Midshipmen who passed through the home, Brendan was also extremely popular among his young peers in the yard and in the community, one of whom, Grayson Church, became and remains, even in death, his closest adult friend. When Brendan's father retired from the Navy the family decided to remain in Annapolis. The "Hotel Doofee" moved out of the Yard to Annapolis Cove, but continued as a center for Midshipmen (largely from Chicago) gatherings. Brendan, lettering in track and golf, graduated from Annapolis Senior High School in 1989 and decided to accept an NROTC scholarship to the University of Maryland's School of Engineering. After two years of excelling in academics and in the NROTC unit, Brendan decided that he "needed more Navy."

With his excellent grades and top performance in the NROTC program, his application for USNA was speedily accepted and he was admitted as a Plebe with the Class of 1995. Now, older and more experienced (but still smaller in stature) than most of his classmates, Brendan quickly rose to the top. His grades, military bearing, and overall excellence brought him the respect of juniors, seniors and peers alike. Routinely on the Superintendent's List, he was his class company commander for three years and, declining the opportunity for a high striper position out-of-company, he chose to stay with his Sixth Company which he led as their (by now over six feet tall) Company Commander at their Graduation.

Having grown up in a largely Naval Aviation environment, his decision to fly was natural. An NFO, he graduated at the top of his flight school class at every level of training. His parents pinned his wings on at the graduation ceremony held at the Naval Aviation Museum at Pensacola, Florida in November of 1996. He was ultimately assigned to the ZAPPERS of VAQ-130 out of NAS Whidbey Island Washington, part of Cartier Air Wing Five aboard ENTERPRISE.

"The tragic mishap that took Brendan's life occurred on the first night flight of the first deployment of his so promising career, as the ship made its way to the Persian Gulf to conduct strike ops against Iraqi targets in Operation Desert Fox. The aircrew of Brendan's plane was held blameless in the landing mishap.

His very moving funeral service at the Naval Academy Chapel on 13 November 1998 was attended by thousands of people, including family members, neighbors, and classmates and friends, many from places around the world. Brendan's ashes were placed in the Naval Academy Columbarium at Hospital Point with full military honors conducted by the Naval Academy's USMC Company and a very smartly executed flyover by F-14s Tomcats.

Brendan is survived by a large adoring family including his father, CDR James F. Duffy, USN (Ret.); his mother Carolyn; brother Kevin and his wife Theresa; his sister Ellen and her husband Paul Jenkins (USNA '85); his brother Brian; his maternal grandmother, Lottie Novak Wingerter; three nieces; three nephews; six uncles and their wives plus numerous cousins.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/BRENDAN_J._DUFFY,_LT,_USN

BRUCE J. DONALD, LT, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LT Bruce Donald, USN '95 was lost when his F/A-18 crashed in the Arabian Gulf on September 24, 2000, soon after taking off from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). He was a member of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 25.

Bruce was a native of Poughkeepsie, New York -- "the land that God forgot" according to his Lucky Bag biography -- and was president of his high school class and active in tennis, skiing, and cross country.

He was survived by his parents, Patrick and Elaine, and his brother, Brian.

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/BRUCE_J._DONALD,_LT,_USN

RICHARD S. PUGH, LT, USN

★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★

LT Richard Pugh, USN '95 was lost on August 9, 2001 when the F-14 Tomcat he was aboard crashed into the Indian Ocean. He was a member of Fighter Squadron (VF) 2, flying from USS Constellation (CV 64).

Richard was a graduate of Temecula Valley High School (California) and the Marion Military Institute (Alabama). After graduation and commissioning from the Naval Academy, he earned his wings of gold as a naval flight officer in August 1997.

"Shipmates remembered a devoted father who spent long nights at sea watching home videos of his 2-year-old daughter, Ashley Elizabeth."

In addition to his daughter, he was survived by his wife of six years Jeanine, "mother and stepfather Vivian and Don Middlebrooks of Denton, Texas; father and stepmother Carl and Sandy Pugh of Temecula; brothers David and Larry Austin of Corinth, Texas, Tim Austin of Valley Center, Dale Huntington of Divide, Colo., and Kevin Huntington of Webster City, Iowa; sisters Sherri Austin of California, Julie Smyth and Cyndi Agan of Murrieta and Elizabeth Agan of Escondido; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins."

To Honor! ⚓

https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/RICHARD_S._PUGH,_LT,_USN