SEAL killed in parachute training identified

[unhappycamper]

Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) Thomas J. Valentine


SEAL killed in parachute training identified
By Andrew Scutro - Staff writer
Posted : Thursday Feb 14, 2008 17:21:16 EST

NORFOLK, Va. — The SEAL killed during parachute training in Arizona Tuesday has been identified as Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) Thomas J. Valentine, 37, of Ham Lake, Minn.

Valentine died from injuries suffered during parachute training at a facility in Marana, Ariz., according to information released by Naval Special Warfare Group 2 in Little Creek, Va. The Navy and local law enforcement are investigating.

Valentine joined the Navy in August 1989 and arrived at BUD/S training in January 1990. He reported to an East Coast-based SEAL team in November 1990, and spent his whole career with East Coast teams.

He served several tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was remembered as a “role model, mentor and incredible leader” by Capt. Scott Moore, commander of the Naval Special Warfare Development Group.

Valentine’s military awards and decorations include three Bronze Stars with “V” for valor, two Joint Service Commendation Medals, three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and three Combat Action Ribbons.


Rest of article at: http://www.navytimes.com/news/2008/02/navy_sealkilled_080214w/