Following an accident during a free-fall parachute training exercise in Arizona, a US Navy SEAL perished.
Following the terrible training accident at an airstrip in Marana, Chief Special Warfare Operator Michael Ernst was transported to Banner University Medical Center in Phoenix where he was later declared deceased, according to a statement from the Naval Special Warfare Command to Fox News.
The Navy stated any additional comment on the tragedy would be “inappropriate” until a study was finished because the accident’s cause is still being investigated.
We are praying and thinking of the Ernst family. Navy Special Warfare Command’s commander, Rear Adm. Keith Davids, said.
At the time of the incident, Ernst was a member of a Naval Special Warfare East Coast team.
Ernst joined the Navy in August 2009 and would join the SEAL community three years later.
During his military tenure, Enrst was awarded a Silver Star — the third highest award for valor a military member can receive for gallantry during combat, a Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and three Combat Action Ribbons — having been in combat situations in three different theaters of war.
“Mike was an exceptional teammate. He was a dedicated NSW Sailor who applied his talents and skills towards some of our nation’s hardest challenges, while selflessly mentoring his teammates,” Adm. Keith Davids said.
Ernst leaves behind his wife and two children, ages 5 and 2.
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