A 19-year-old U.S. Navy sailor, Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV, has been declared lost at sea off the coast of Australia after going missing from the USS George Washington, leaving family, shipmates, and the Navy mourning the loss of a courageous young service member.

A grim chapter unfolded in the Timor Sea off the coast of northern Australia when 19-year-old U.S. Navy sailor Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV was declared lost at sea after going missing from the USS George Washington.

The aircraft carrier, a Nimitz-class nuclear-powered vessel, was navigating the waters north of Australia on July 28 when Rivera Lynch was reported overboard, just hours after a heartfelt phone call with his parents.

Rivera Lynch, who had enlisted at 17 through the Navy’s delayed enlistment program, had been serving as an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Launch/Recovery Equipment) Airman aboard the carrier.

His family, from Middleburg, Florida, revealed the young sailor had followed a proud tradition of military service, with both his father, grandfather, and sister having served.

“He is my hero,” said his father, Juan Antonio Rivera III, reflecting on the loss that has shaken the family.

The last conversation Rivera Lynch had with his parents revealed a young man exhausted by the demands of service but steadfast in his love for his family.

“We noticed the tiredness, we noticed that, and then he said, ‘I love you guys,’” his father recalled, voice breaking. “That was the last thing I said to my son. I told him, ‘You’re the best of me. You’ve been to places I’ve never been and we are so proud of you.’”

When the alarm was raised, a massive search and rescue operation was launched, spanning 45 hours and covering approximately 2,200 square miles.

Several Naval vessels joined the effort, assisted by the Australian Defense Force and Australian Border Forces. Despite the intensive search, the Navy ultimately called off the operation on July 30, officially declaring Rivera Lynch lost at sea.

Tributes poured in for the young sailor, honoring both his service and character. His family described him as more than a sailor — a loving son, cherished brother, and loyal friend whose laughter and light touched everyone around him.

The Navy likewise recognized his dedication, with Carrier Strike Group 5 Commander Rear Admiral Eric Anduze stating that the courage and commitment demonstrated by all personnel involved in the search “exemplifies the professionalism and commitment that defines our Navy.”

Rivera Lynch had joined the USS George Washington in January when it was stationed at its homeport in Yokosuka, Japan.

Over the course of his service, he had gained respect from shipmates for his professionalism and dedication to duty. Despite his youth, he exhibited maturity beyond his years, balancing long, grueling workdays while maintaining a positive presence aboard the carrier.

The family held a private memorial earlier this month to honor Rivera Lynch, and a formal funeral and Navy memorial service are scheduled for September 19 in Yokosuka, Japan.

In the wake of the tragedy, the Navy continues to support his family, friends, and shipmates, emphasizing the enduring bonds and commitment that define life aboard a carrier strike group.

Rivera Lynch’s story is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by young service members who put themselves in harm’s way daily.

At just 19, he had already carried the weight of responsibility, service, and family legacy, all while demonstrating courage and humility. His sudden loss leaves a void felt not only by loved ones but by a military community bound by shared experience and honor.

As tributes continue to pour in from across the Navy and beyond, those who knew him reflect on a life marked by bravery, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to others.

His father’s words resonate: “Jose was vibrant, educated, humble. He served his country, he served the Navy, and he has made his family proud.”

Though his service was brief, Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV’s legacy endures — a young sailor whose life exemplified courage, love for family, and a devotion to duty that will be remembered by all who knew him.

His story is now part of the greater narrative of the Navy’s global mission, a testament to the sacrifices of the youngest members of the armed forces who face extraordinary challenges while serving far from home.