Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Troy Josiah, A Sailor's Story
Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Troy Josiah, A Sailor's Story
Troy Josiah was born on May 9, 1965, in St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands. He enlisted in the United States Navy on February 2, 1985, answering a call to serve during a period marked by growing global tension and rapid operational demands on America’s military forces.
Rated as an Aviation Structural Mechanic Second Class (ASM2), Josiah trained in the maintenance, inspection, and repair of naval aircraft, work that required precision, physical endurance, and constant attention to safety. In addition to his duties as a mechanic, he also served as a rescue swimmer, a role entrusted to sailors capable of operating in extreme conditions to recover aircrew and assist during emergencies at sea.
During his naval service, ASM2 Josiah was assigned to several vessels, including the USS Shasta, USS Caron, and USS Jason. In December 1990, he deployed to the Persian Gulf aboard the USS Tripoli in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm during the Gulf War. His deployment placed him in a forward operating environment at a critical moment in the conflict.
On December 19, 1990, Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Troy Josiah was killed when a UH-1N Huey helicopter crashed into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Guam. He was 25 years old.
Josiah’s service reflects the quiet professionalism of naval aviation maintainers and rescue personnel — sailors whose work often took place far from public view but was essential to every successful mission. His life and service are remembered with honor as part of the enduring record of those who stood watch during the Gulf War.
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About the Author
a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller traveling through life
She shares her journeys at Take the Back Roads, explores new reads at Rite of Fancy, and highlights U.S. military biographies at Everyday Patriot.
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