ITCS (SEAL) Daniel R. Healy, U.S. Navy
July 17, 1968 – June 28, 2005
Dan grew up in Exeter, New Hampshire, and graduated from Exeter High School in 1986. In high school, he played soccer and was devoted to weightlifting. He also enjoyed swimming, golf, and bowling, and had an unabashed love for Neil Diamond—often making sure others listened too. Dan was known for his helpfulness, compassion, and strong work ethic. A devoted family man, he surrounded himself with good people and had a gift for making the world feel smaller, more connected, and more meaningful.
After high school, Dan searched for direction and a fulfilling career. That search led him to the U.S. Navy in 1990, inspired by a SEAL promotional video and encouraged by a friend already serving. After basic training, he completed Information Technician School and began Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training in January 1991. By 1992, he had completed BUD/S, Jump School, and SEAL Qualification Training, and was assigned to SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team ONE (SDVT-1) in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. His Navy career included Russian language training at the Defense Language Institute, service with SEAL Delivery Team TWO, and a return to SDVT-1, where he led a training platoon. In March 2005, he deployed to Afghanistan. On June 28, 2005, Dan was killed in action during Operation Red Wings, when his Chinook helicopter was shot down in Kunar Province. The mission claimed the lives of eight Navy SEALs and eight Army Night Stalkers.
Dan’s legacy lives on through his family, friends, and fellow service members. The Dan Healy Foundation honors his memory by awarding scholarships to students entering the military or trade schools, providing grants to single parents, and supporting local veterans.
