A sailor stationed at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, was found dead inside a command building on Friday, according to a statement from the Navy. The deceased has been identified as Fire Controlman 1st Class Alonzo Tablet Martin Jr., an instructor at the Surface Combat Systems Training Command Detachment Middle Atlantic.
In a message from Cmdr. Laura K. Stegherr, the spokesperson for Naval Education and Training Command, the Navy expressed its condolences. “The Navy mourns the loss of our shipmate and sends condolences to FCA1 Martin’s family, friends and fellow sailors during this difficult time,” the statement read.
Alonzo Tablet Martin Jr. hailed from Missouri and enlisted in the Navy on January 28, 2015. He served aboard the USS Barry from February 10, 2020, until March 25, 2023, after completing his training at the AEGIS Training and Readiness Center in Dahlgren, Virginia. Following his service on the USS Barry, he was assigned to the U.S. Aegis Ashore Missile Defense System Romania and later to Detachment Dam Neck in Virginia Beach.
Throughout his naval career, Martin Jr. received multiple awards and decorations. His accolades include the Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist badge, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and Pistol Marksman qualification.
The circumstances surrounding Martin Jr.’s death are currently under investigation by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. The Navy has committed to cooperating fully with the investigation to uncover the details surrounding this tragic event. As the investigation unfolds, more information is expected to be released.
