The commander of Navy SEAL Team 1 was found dead in his California home on Monday.
The San Diego County Sheriff's Department investigating the death of Robert Ramirez and foul play is not suspected.
SEAL team commander found dead in California residence https://t.co/sKP0RUg4km pic.twitter.com/ybREjfmeKB
— The Hill (@thehill) December 23, 2022
“Bobby was an outstanding leader, devoted husband and father, and a good friend to us all,” Capt. David Abernathy, commanding officer of Naval Special Warfare Group 1, said in a statement.
“This is a devastating loss to our community and all who knew him. We will remain in support of Bobby’s family, friends and teammates during this extremely difficult time,” he added.
Decorated Navy commander found dead in California home month after taking over elite SEAL team: reports https://t.co/1tve2BaZLp
— Fox News (@FoxNews) December 23, 2022
"Military Times reported that Ramirez had taken command of the SEAL Team 1, part of Naval Special Warfare Group 1 based at Naval Base Coronado in California, just a month ago," Fox News reported.
"He enlisted in the Navy in 1996 and had served for more than 25 years. Ramirez attended Navy Special Warfare Basic Training in Coronado in 1997 and was commissioned in 2004. His decorations included five Bronze Stars," it continued.
"Ramirez served in the Navy for more than 25 years after enlisting in 1996, attending Navy Special Warfare Basic Training in Coronado in 1997 and commissioned in 2004, with awards and decorations including five Bronze Star Medals," the report added.
Navy Seal team commander, 47, found dead at home https://t.co/GSsDBJJH3O
— The Independent (@Independent) December 23, 2022
Ramirez is the second SEAL team leader to die in the past year.
Brian Bourgeois, leader of SEAL Team 9, died in December 2021, after an accident during helicopter rope training in Virginia.
The loss of the military leader comes as lawmakers recently completed the passing of next year's military budget that ended the COVID-19 vaccine mandate. The move was expected to help fight against concerns with recruiting due to the mandate in the Armed Forces.
The U.S. military has also dealt with issues related to diversity training that has been criticized. In addition, the military is increasingly involved in the situation in Ukraine, assisting from outside the nation to help refugees and to provide security following Russia's invasion 10 months ago of the former Soviet Republic.
Ramirez served admirably and leaves behind a legacy that will long be remembered by the nation he served.