Hero Navy Sailor Drowns Rescuing Two Children from Hawaii Waters

A U.S. Navy sailor died over the weekend after rescuing two children caught in rough surf in Waiapua‘a Bay, Hawaii, according to officials on Kaua‘i.

Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz, 47, of Florida, was stationed in Hawaii.

The heroic sailor’s death was confirmed by the Kaua‘i Police Department (KPD) in a news release.

Diaz entered the water Saturday when he saw two children struggling in high surf conditions.

According to reports, the children were Diaz’s two sons.

The children made it safely back to shore after being rescued by Diaz.

However, Diaz ran into distress shortly afterward.

Emergency personnel with the Ocean Safety Bureau and Barking Sands Fire and Emergency Services located Diaz in the water.

They immediately initiated lifesaving measures.

He was transported to Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital.

However, he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Capt. Robert Prince, commanding officer of the Pacific Missile Range Facility, said that the loss has deeply affected the base community.

In a statement, Prince wrote:

“We are heartbroken by the passing of our shipmate and friend, MA1 First Class Jeffrey Diaz, and extend our sincerest condolences to the family, friend,s and shipmates who are grieving.”

Prince also thanked those who acted quickly during the emergency.

“We are grateful to the emergency responders, Sailors, and their family members who provided immediate assistance, and we remain committed to supporting his family and those affected as we navigate this difficult time together,” he added.

According to his wife, Keyonna Fairley, their 9-year-old son was pulled out by a large wave.

Diaz swam to him, got him stable, and told him to go back to shore.

He then swam over to his younger son.

“From what my son said, he was in the middle of the ocean, and his dad was swimming with one arm, trying to get him to safety,” she recalled.

“And then, he got on his dad’s back, and swam for a little bit.

“My son said that Jeff told him, ‘Ok bub, you’re going to have to get off my back. I’m going to drown. I want you to go. I want you to swim. Don’t stop. You got this. Don’t give up. I love you.’”

“Those were the last words he heard from his dad,” Fairley added.

Police said an autopsy is pending, but foul play is not suspected.

In a separate statement, KPD said:

“The Kaua‘i Police Department extends its condolences to the family and loved ones of Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz during this difficult time.”

Diaz was assigned to the Pacific Missile Range Facility at Barking Sands.

He leaves behind a wife and two sons.

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