Texas Tech graduate among 2 Navy SEALs declared dead after mission in Arabian Sea

A Texas Tech graduate was among two U.S. Navy SEALS lost during a nighttime mission earlier this month in the Arabian Sea to seize a vessel illegally transporting Iranian weapons to resupply Houthi forces in Yemen.

According to the U.S. Navy, the 10-day search and rescue efforts to find Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Nathan Gage Ingram — a 2019 Texas Tech graduate — and Navy Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Christopher J. Chambers were unsuccessful and called off on Jan. 21.

According to a news release from U.S. Central Command, the two missing SEALs' status has been changed to deceased.

According to USA Today, an anonymous official spoke with the Associated Press, saying that Ingram began climbing the ladder onto the boat when he slipped and fell into the water. Following his instincts and protocol, Chambers dove into the water to try and save Ingram."

The two sailors were weighed down by their body armor, weapons and heavy equipment and died, the officials told AP.

“We extend our condolences to Chris and Gage's families, friends, and teammates during this incredibly challenging time. They were exceptional warriors, cherished teammates, and dear friends to many within the Naval Special Warfare community,” stated Capt. Blake L. Chaney, commander of Naval Special Warfare Group 1, in the news release.

According to the Navy Public Affairs Office, Ingram was from Trophy Club, Texas, north of the DFW metroplex, and graduated from Byron Nelson High School and Texas Tech University.

He enlisted on Sept. 15, 2019, and graduated to camp at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, Ill., in November 2019. In 2021, Ingram graduated with SEAL qualification training in Coronado, Calif., and served with West Coast-based SEAL units.

State Rep. Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, was among Texas leaders who shared statements mourning the loss.

In a social media post, Burrows stated, "we are deeply saddened to learn that the State of Texas and the Texas Tech family have lost one of our own in the tragedy involving the deaths of two Navy SEALs."

He further passed along his condolences to both families.

Ingram's alma mater issued a statement late Tuesday evening stating:

"Nathan Gage Ingram leaves an indelible mark on the Texas Tech University family. As a Navy SEAL, Gage represented the highest standards of courage and selflessness, protecting and defending our country. The Red Raider family mourns with and extends our deepest sympathies to Gage’s family and friends."

U.S. Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-Lubbock, also issued a statement passing along his and his wife's condolences to the family and saying that they will never forget their sacrifice.

"Navy Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Christopher Chambers and Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Nathan Gage Ingram represent the very best of America, and we are undeserving of their selfless sacrifice. Thank God for the few who raise their right hand and swear to defend our great nation and confront the evils of this world head-on," stated Arrington in the news release.

U.S. President Joe Biden also issued a statement on Monday stating:

"Jill and I are mourning the tragic deaths of two of America’s finest—Navy SEALs who were lost at sea while executing a mission off the coast of East Africa last week.  Over ten days, the United States military conducted an extensive search and rescue mission. Recovery efforts are still continuing as we grieve this profound loss for our country. These SEALs represented the very best of our country, pledging their lives to protect their fellow Americans.  Our hearts go out to the family members, loved ones, friends, and shipmates who are grieving for these two brave Americans. Our entire country stands with you. We will never fail to honor their service, their legacy, and their sacrifice."