06/14/2026
ON THIS DAYโ June 14, 1985
Today marks the 41st anniversary of the hijacking of TWA Flight 847, a tragic event that took the life of U.S. Navy Steelworker 2nd Class (SW2) Robert Dean Stethem.
A Seabee diver with Underwater Construction Team ONE, Stethem was returning from an overseas assignment when the flight was seized by terrorists. Identified as a U.S. Sailor, he was brutally beaten for refusing to cooperate. On June 15, 1985, he was murdered for his courage and unshakable loyalty to his country. He was just 23 years old.
In recognition of his bravery, the Navy awarded him the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Prisoner of War Medal. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery and posthumously promoted to Master Chief Constructionman (CUCM).
In 1995, the Navy commissioned the USS Stethem (DDG-63) in his honorโa living tribute to his sacrifice and the Seabee "Can Do" spirit.
Credit: Navy Seabee Foundation
Learn more about his legacy:
๐ https://www.seabee.org/heritage/memorials/uss-robert-d-stethem/