SWRMC Dedicates Building In Memory of Medal of Honor Recipient

by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bradley J. Gee, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

NAVAL BASE POINT LOMA, Calif. (NNS) -- Military leaders, government officials, family and friends attended the dedication of Southwest Regional Maintenance Center's new Diving Division Building at Naval Base Point Loma, May 9.

The facility is named after Chief Gunner's Mate Thomas Eadie, who was meritoriously promoted to lieutenant and received the nations highest military award for his rescue efforts during the sinking of USS S-4 submarine, from a collision off the coast of Massachusetts on Dec. 18, 1927.

"In dedicating this facility in his name we are ensuring Lt. Thomas Eadie's life was not in vain, and that his legacy will live on in future generations of both Navy divers and submariners," said Capt. Gene Doyle, commodore, Submarine Squadron 11.

Eadie risked his life by diving 102 feet and spent two hours submerged underwater rescuing a shipmate.

"Navy divers provide support and maintenance for subs when they need it and also rescue missions," said Capt. Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, commanding officer, Southwest Regional Maintenance Center. "What better way to show our young Navy divers of the rich heritage that's in our blood than displaying and highlighting the extraordinary heroism of our past."

The ceremony concluded with a plaque reveal to surviving members of the Eadie family outside the entrance of the building.