A sailor died after being flown off a Norfolk-based destroyer last week while deployed overseas, Navy officials said.
Chief Gunner’s Mate Caprice Pryor was medically evacuated off the USS Ramage on June 8 while underway in the North Sea. The cause of his death is under investigation.
“Our deepest condolences go to Chief Pryor’s family and friends and to the Ramage crew,” said Rear Adm. Erik Eslich, commander of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group. “Chief Pryor made a lasting impact on the Sailors he led aboard Ramage, and his contributions to the U.S. Navy are immeasurable. “
Pryor, an Illinois native, enlisted in the Navy in September 1998. He has served at the Navy Submarine Torpedo Facility in Yorktown and been attached to 7 warships, including: the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Nicholas; guided missile cruisers Cowpens and Antietam; and destroyers William P. Lawrence, Barry and Ramage.
Pryor reported in July 2022 to Ramage, which is homeported in Norfolk.
Ramage is deployed to the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa area of operations as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group. The strike group left Naval Station Norfolk in the first week of May.
“We stand ready to support Chief’s family, friends, and the Ramage crew through this tragic time. Our sincerest thanks go to our Norwegian Allies for their assistance during the MEDEVAC (medical evacuation) and support now to bringing Chief Pryor home,” Eslich said.
Among Pryor’s awards and decorations are a Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, an Armed Forces Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.
