SOCS (SEAL) Thomas Ratzlaff

On August 6, 2011, Senior Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Thomas Ratzlaff was one of 30 American service members who were killed in action during a mission in the Wardak Province of Afghanistan. A group of U.S. Army Special Forces was on a mission to obtain a high value target in the mountains of Afghanistan when they came under fire from opposition forces. A team of U.S. Army and Afghanistan military members, along with 22 members of the Naval Special Warfare community, quickly responded to help suppress the opposition forces and assist with the evacuation of the high value target. While returning to base, the CH-47 Chinook Helicopter carrying the team was struck by a rocket propelled grenade, killing all members onboard. 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.