'We lost a great hero': Tributes pour in for Robert Ramirez as decorated SEAL commander dies by suicide
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA: Tributes continue to pour in for the highly decorated SEAL team commander Robert Ramirez III who was found dead in his San Diego, California home on early Monday, December,19.
Robert 'Bobby' Ramirez, who enlisted in the Navy in 1996 and was commissioned in 2004, died just one month after taking over the prestigious Navy SEAL Team 1, based on Naval Base Coronado where he had arrived in June. Apparently, the Naval Special Warfare Command had announced no foul play and reports also confirmed that the commander has died of suicide. However, further investigations will be continued by San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.
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The San Diego medical examiner’s office has told the Daily Mail that Ramirez died by suicide. “Bobby was an outstanding leader, devoted husband, and father, and a good friend to us all,” said Captain David Abernathy, commanding officer of Naval Special Warfare Group 1, who oversees all four Coronado-based SEAL teams. “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," said Abernathy, as per NBC San Diego.
Ramirez held three Combat Action Ribbons, two of which were awarded to him for his service in Afghanistan and Iraq. His additional medals included five Bronze Star Medals, including two that have the Combat 'V' insignia, which denotes bravery and heroic deeds. He was also awarded a Defense Meritorious Service Medal and a Joint Service Commendation Medal. Before his arrival at Coronado in June this year, the commander was with the Seventh Fleet, in Yokosuka, Japan starting in June 2020 as per Independent.
He was married to Anne Ramirez and has four children. Jennifer James, a family friend said, "I am devastated. Anne Ramirez and Robert Ramirez III have been my friends since high school and have represented our country through multiple deployments and sacrifices to serve the mission of the USA." She added, "We lost an amazing human on Monday, and Anne and Bobby's story must be told." Obi Ugochukwu, a Navy medic, said, "This is just a devastating loss. The pain of this loss cuts really deep. Many of us were at Bobby’s Change of Command Ceremony and it was such a joyous occasion. I can’t understand this and I am just praying for Anne, the children, and the rest of the family. 'We lost a GREAT HERO' and this will hurt for a very long time."
"Bobby, you were one of my best friends in college. I was honored to stand by your side in your wedding to Anne. Time and distance may have separated us but, you were and are always on my mind and in my heart. I spoke of you often when others needed encouragement. I was so proud of you and everything you accomplished in your life. You were an exemplary Sigma Chi, human being, husband, father, friend, and SEAL. These tears cannot express all that I am feeling. My heart and prayers are with Anne and the kids in this dark time. I miss you brother. All honor to your name. IHSV," Ben Bouman wrote in his tribute.