http://www2.tbo.com/news/breaking-news/2012/jun/09/1/navy-sailor-from-gulfport-dies-on-uss-enterprise-ar-413990/



A sailor from Gulfport was found dead in his berthing
compartment aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Enterprise in the Middle
East on Friday morning, according to a ship spokeswoman.
Master Chief Petty Officer Richard J. Kessler, 47, was found dead in
his compartment at 7 a.m. local time, according to Lt. Com.
Sarah Self-Kyler.
The cause of death is under investigation, said Navy Lt. Greg Raelson.


"The Navy is deeply saddened by the loss of one of our shipmates,"
Raelson said. "Our deepest thoughts and condolences go out to his family
during this difficult time."
Kessler was the leading chief petty officer for the supply department and oversaw about 500 sailors, according to Self-Kyler.


He was in charge of making sure the Enterprise was fully stocked with food and supplies, said Self-Kyler.


"He was well known on the ship and very well liked by the sailors who reported to him and everyone else," she said.


Despite the death, morale on the ship is strong, said Self-Kyler.


"We are carrying on the way he would have wanted us to," she said.


Kessler joined the Navy in 1984 and has been on the Enterprise since April 2011.


The Enterprise is supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. About 4,800 sailors and Marines are aboard the Enterprise.


Kessler received several awards during his time in the service:


Defense Meritorious Service Medal


Joint Service Commendation Medal


Navy Commendation Medal (2)


Joint Service Achievement Medal


Navy Achieve Medal (4)


Army Achievement Medal


Meritorious Unit Commendation


Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation


Navy "E" Ribbon


National Defense Service Medal


Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal


Afghanistan Campaign Medal


Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal


Global War on Terrorism Service Medal


Southwest Asia Service Medal w/Bronze Star


Sea Service Deployment Ribbon


Nato Medal


Rifle Marksmanship


Pistol Marksmanship