As Memorial Day approaches, we pause to remember and honor the brave service members who made the ultimate sacrifice—not only on the battlefield, but also in the line of duty during peacetime operations. Listener Randy McKnight of Cridersville, Ohio, has graciously shared a deeply personal story in remembrance of shipmates he served with or knew through his Navy career. These are heroes who, though not lost in combat, gave their lives in service to our country and must never be forgotten.
On October 30, 1990, tragedy struck aboard the USS Iwo Jima (LPH-2) when a boiler room accident claimed the lives of ten sailors. These men, brothers in arms, are remembered with honor:
- LT. John M. Snyder
- BT1 Robert L. Volden
- BT2 Mark E. Hutchinson
- BT2 Fred R. Parker Jr.
- BT3 David A. Gilliland
- BTFA Daniel C. McKinsey
- BTFA Tyrone A. Brooks
- EM2 Daniel Lupatsky
- MM3 Michael N. Mains Jr.
- MM3 James A. Smith Jr.
Just over a year later, on February 22, 1992, another engine room fire took the lives of two more brave sailors aboard the USS Dahlgren (DDG-43):
- MM3 Christopher James Woodmansee
- Fireman Sean Allen Bible
Randy McKnight, a former Boiler Technician who served aboard the USS Dahlgren from 1981 to 1983, reflects on the risks and honor of the job:
“It was a very dangerous job but it was satisfying and very rewarding. Even after I left the Navy, I continued this work as a licensed operator in Ohio. These men were my brothers. Their loss still echoes through the lives of those who served with them.”
While Randy was no longer on active duty when these accidents occurred, he shares their stories as a way to keep their memories alive—because too many who die in service during peacetime are overlooked.
At Towpath Radio and River Rat Country, we’re honored to share this tribute as a reminder of the sacrifices made beyond the battlefield. To Randy—and to all veterans who carry the memory of their fallen comrades—thank you. We remember with you.
May we never forget their names, their service, or the price they paid.
In Memoriam.
Services and parades for Memorial Day 2025 can be found here.
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