A U.S. Navy sailor tragically lost his life on October 7, 2023, while attempting to rescue two children from turbulent waters at a beach in Kauai, Hawaii. Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz, stationed at the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF), was pronounced dead after emergency responders retrieved him from the high surf.
Emergency personnel were dispatched to Waiapua‘a Bay near the Shenanigans restaurant after receiving reports of a swimmer in distress. According to the Kauai Police Department, Diaz entered the water to assist the children, who were struggling amidst strong waves. While the children were successfully brought back to safety, Diaz encountered difficulties and was unable to return to shore.
Rescue efforts were coordinated by the Ocean Safety Bureau in conjunction with the Barking Sands Fire and Emergency Services Department. They managed to pull the 47-year-old sailor from the water and initiated lifesaving measures, but he was later pronounced dead at Kauai Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waimea.
Diaz joined the Navy in 1997 and reported to PMRF in October 2023. His distinguished service includes assignments on the guided-missile destroyer USS Ross and at the Navy Support Facility Diego Garcia. Over his career, he received numerous commendations, including the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and the Kosovo Campaign Medal. Diaz was promoted to master-at-arms 1st class in 2022.
The Navy expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a valued member of their team. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks faced by those who serve and protect, both in uniform and in their communities. As investigations continue, the community and the Navy mourn the loss of a hero who put others’ safety above his own.