Navy SEAL Dies After Parachute Malfunction In New Jersey

Normally; Memorial Day is a celebration of those who have fought for the freedoms so many of us take for granted. It's a great day to get out, catch an airshow, a barbecue and hopefully, just take a break and give thanks for those who got us here.

And sometimes, its a sad day when one of those celebrations goes badly... as it did Sunday, as part of "Fleet Week."

A member of the US Navy's elite parachute team, the Leap Frogs, was pronounced dead Sunday at 1310 after his parachute malfunctioned and he landed in the Hudson River during an aerial demonstration at Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey.

The service member was retrieved immediately by the U.S. Coast Guard personnel who were specifically standing by in vessels to support the event, and transported to Jersey City Medical Center for care.

The accident occurred at approximately 1210, Sunday, during a planned Fleet Week New York event that featured a coordinated parachute jump by the Leap Frogs.

"Our hearts and prayers go out to his family, and I ask for all of your prayers for the Navy SEAL community who lost a true patriot today," said Rear Adm. Jack Scorby, Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic.

The incident is under investigation and the service member's name is being withheld until family notifications are complete.

FMI: http://leapfrogs.navy/