A U.S. Navy sailor tragically lost his life on Saturday while attempting to rescue two children from rough waters at a beach in Kauai, Hawaii. Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz, who was stationed at the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF), died after being pulled from the surf by first responders.
Emergency personnel received reports of a swimmer in distress at Waiapua‘a Bay near the restaurant Shenanigans, prompting a swift response from local authorities. According to the Kauai Police Department, Diaz bravely entered the turbulent waters to save the struggling children. While the children were successfully brought back to safety, Diaz encountered difficulties and required assistance.
Rescue teams from the Ocean Safety Bureau and the Barking Sands Fire and Emergency Services Department reached Diaz and initiated lifesaving efforts. Despite their attempts, he was transported to Kauai Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waimea, where he was pronounced dead.
Diaz had been assigned to PMRF since October 2023. His military career included service on the guided-missile destroyer USS Ross and at Navy Support Facility Diego Garcia, among other locations. He had enlisted in the Navy in 1997 and achieved the rank of master-at-arms 1st class in 2022. His dedication to service was recognized through numerous awards, including the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal and the Kosovo Campaign Medal.
The incident has drawn attention to the risks faced by those who engage in water rescues, highlighting the courage displayed by first responders and military personnel alike. The Kauai Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Diaz’s sacrifice is a poignant reminder of the unwavering commitment of service members to protect others.
