Navy officer dies during training in Va. Beach

VIRGINIA BEACH

A Navy officer assigned to a special warfare unit died after collapsing during physical training at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story.

Lt. Thomas C. Fouke, 28, was treated at the scene Tuesday by Navy medics and then taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 3:30 p.m., the Navy said. The cause of death is under investigation.

"We are deeply saddened and shocked by the sudden loss of a great teammate like Thomas," said Capt. Brad Treadway, commander of Naval Special Warfare Group 10.

"On behalf of the Naval Special Warfare community, we extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the Fouke family during this very difficult time.

"We will do everything we can to support Thomas' family and our grieving service members during this period of mourning."

Fouke, a native of St. Louis, was commissioned in 2006 after graduating from the University of Florida.

He was an information warfare officer.

After his initial training in the Reserve Officer Training Corps program, Fouke served at the Navy Information Operations Command in Misawa, Japan, from July 2006 until October 2009.

He then transferred to the Navy Information Operations Command in Bahrain, where he served from November 2009 until May 2011.

In June, Fouke reported to the special warfare unit in Virginia Beach.

He received the Navy's Air Medal (2nd Strike/Flight Award), the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and Navy Marksmanship Medals for rifle and pistol.

He is survived by his mother, father and brother.

Meredith Kruse, 757-446-2164, meredith.kruse@pilotonline.com