Honoree: Erik Kristensen


Erik Kristensen
Dates: Died June 28, 2005
Hometown: San Diego, CA
Branch of Service: Navy
Rank: SEAL (Lieutenant Commander)
Player: Danny Auffant

Lt. Commander Erik Kristensen, 33, of San Diego, Cal was assigned to SEAL Team 10, Virginia Beach, Va. He died June 28, 2005, when he and fifteen other service members were on a daring night mission to reinforce a four-man SEAL reconnaissance squad that had been ambushed in 10,000 foot mountainous terrain. His MH-47 Chinook helicopter was shot down by an RPG, killing all on board, including eight SEALs.

LCDR Kristensen attended Gonzaga High School in Washington, D.C. He later attended the US Naval Academy, earning a varsity letter in crew and graduating with honors in 1995 with an English major and French minor.

Although originally told he was too old to become a SEAL, LCDR Kristensen didn’t give up. He persevered, overcoming injury and obstacles to finally realize his dream in 2001.

LCDR Kristensen was a Renaissance man—he was well read, a scholar of Shakespeare, a trumpet player, and an all-around athlete, from football to lacrosse to crew. He loved art and literature and taught English at the Academy.

He is survived by his parents Rear Admiral Edward Kristensen and Suzanne (Sam) Kristensen.