Community Corner
Sailor Found Dead Aboard Navy Vessel
Master Chief Petty Officer Richard J. Kessler Jr. of Gulfport was found dead in his berthing compartment aboard the aircraft carrier Enterprise.
A sailor from Gulfport who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom was found dead on Friday, June 8, according to the U.S. Department of Defense.
Officials say Master Chief Petty Officer Richard J. Kessler Jr., 47 of Gulfport was discovered in his berthing compartment on the USS Enterprise. He was assigned to Enterprise as a logistics specialist.
Enterprise is currently deployed in the Middle East and supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
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According to The Tampa Tribune, the cause of death is under investigation. Lt. Com. Sarah Self-Kyler told TBO that Kessler oversaw about 500 sailors and was the leading chief petty officer for the supply department.
Kessler enlisted in the Navy in 1984 and has served on the Enterprise since April 2011, according to TBO.
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Kessler recieved several awards including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation. For a complete list of Kessler's awards, visit TBO.com.
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