HMC (SEAL) Matthew Bourgeois

On March 27, 2002, Chief Petty Officer (SEAL) Matthew Bourgeois sustained mortal wounds while conducting maneuvers at Tarmac Farms (former home to Osama Bin Laden), an abandoned Al-Qaeda terrorist training camp near Kandahar, Afghanistan. Bourgeois stepped on an enemy-placed landmine as U.S. Forces were attempting to neutralize and remove munitions on target. Bourgeois became the 31st U.S. service member and second Navy SEAL to die in Afghanistan since the Global War on Terror began in October 2001. 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.