In a horribly sad incident that occurred shortly before Thanksgiving, Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz, a 47-year-old U.S. Navy sailor from Florida stationed at Hawaii’s Pacific Missile Range Facility, died on November 22, 2025, after heroically rescuing his two children struggling in high surf at Waiapua‘a Bay, Kauai.
While the children reached safety, Diaz lost consciousness and was pulled from the water by rescuers from the Ocean Safety Bureau and the Barking Sands Fire Department. Sadly, lifesaving efforts failed at Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital. While foul play is not suspected, an autopsy is pending. Reacting to the tragic accident, his commanding officer and the police expressed deep condolences and praised his selflessness.
Reacting to the tragic event, Capt. Robert Prince, commanding officer of the Pacific Missile Range Facility, offered his condolences. “We are heartbroken by the passing of our shipmate and friend, MA1 First Class Jeffrey Diaz and extend our sincerest condolences to the family, friends and shipmates who are grieving,” the officer noted.
Adding to his comments, Capt. Prince said, “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.”
Likewise, officials from the Kaua‘i Police Department mourned the loss of the courageous seaman. “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,” a statement read.
Offering more context, Keyonna Fairley, Diaz’s wife, revealed that the two children Diaz fought to rescue were his own sons. She stated, “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.”
According to his family, the sailor’s last words were, “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.”
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When the story reached social media, users were touched by Diaz touching sacrifice. “In addition to these families grieving now before Thanksgiving, but a third family lost another hero in Hawaii, Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz, who died saving his two sons in a dangerous surf,” a prominent conservative said, connecting the death to the assassination of two national guardsmen in DC.
Likewise, another comment noted, “Master-at Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz of FL Died in HI on Nov 22 2025 He heroically rescued two children in Waiapua Bay-his lifesaving efforts made it possible that because of his valor, these children could live out their lives Truly, HE is the BEST of Us.🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸.” Agreeing, a user reacted, “Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz. Rest in Peace Sheepdog. Mission complete.”
Many were impressed by Diaz’s courage. One woman said. “Thank you Jeffrey Diaz. A true hero in every sense of the word. May these child lead incredible lives never forgetting the gift you gave them.”