ABH1 (SEAL) Neil Roberts

On March 5, 2002, Petty Officer First Class (SEAL) Neil Roberts sustained mortal wounds while participating in the opening phase of Operation Anaconda, a U.S.-led offensive high in the mountains of Eastern Afghanistan. Roberts was poised to exit the ramp of a MH-47 Chinook Helicopter for a nighttime insertion when the aircraft was hit by rocket-propelled grenades. As it maneuvered to evade the explosions, Roberts was thrown from the helicopter into hostile enemy territory. He immediately engaged overwhelming Al-Qaeda forces with his light machine gun. Roberts survived at least thirty minutes, expending all of his ammunition and killing an untold number of enemy fighters, before he was shot and killed at close range. He was assigned to an East Coast based SEAL team.

Fallen Heroes of the U.S. Navy SEALs
September 11, 2001 to Present

In the days, months, and years following the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States, Navy SEALs have been called upon more so than ever to employ their unique set of skills in accomplishing our nation’s most dangerous and covert operations. The photographs and stories in this room honor those SEALs who have made the ultimate sacrifice in support of the war on terror, and are displayed in chronological order of their sacrifice, from left to right. Similar displays can be found on the quarterdecks of the U.S. Navy and Naval Special Warfare Commands.

Memorial Provided by the U.S. Navy, Naval Special Warfare Preparatory School, Naval Station Great Lakes, IL.