The commanding officer of the nuclear powered aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) died suddenly Nov. 8 at Norfolk Naval Shipyard.
Capt. Tushar Tembe was departing the ship at approximately 10 a.m. when he collapsed.
The ship’s medical response team provided immediate medical assistance until Tembe could be transported to Bons Secours Maryview Medical Center where he was later pronounced dead. The cause of death has not been determined.
“We offer our sincere condolences to Capt. Tembe’s wife and children, his family and the Truman crew. They are in our thoughts and our prayers as we deal with this tragic loss. Capt. Tembe served the Navy and our nation honorably and with great distinction. We honor his outstanding contributions to our nation,” said Rear Adm. Ted Branch , commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic.
Tembe, 49, a naval aviator, assumed command of Truman last August. He was born in Bombay, India and came to the United States as a child and later graduated from Texas Tech University. After receiving his Wings of Gold, Tembe flew a variety of aircraft including the F/A-18 Hornet. His many assignments included a tour as commanding officer of Strike Fighter Squadron 87, the “Golden Warriors” at NAS Oceana, Va.
Tembe is survived by his wife and two sons.
Planning for a memorial service and funeral arrangements is ongoing.
The ship’s executive officer, Capt. Craig Clapperton, has temporarily assumed command.
Harry S. Truman is undergoing repairs at Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth.
[mappress] Source: navy, November 10, 2011