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NEWS | March 13, 2020

Death aboard USS Vella Gulf

By U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Imran Khan, a Sailor assigned to the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72), died, March 10.

Khan was medically evacuated by the ship's helicopter to Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, Greece, and then transferred to a local hospital, Iasis, in Chania, Greece, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The cause of death is pending investigation. 

"The entire Vella Gulf team is saddened and grieving the tragic passing of our Shipmate and Friend, BM2 Imran Khan," said Capt. Andrew Fitzpatrick, commanding officer, USS Vella Gulf. "A beloved and steadfast member of our Team, his passing has been felt deeply throughout the command.  Our hearts are with the entire Khan Family as we extend our deepest sympathy for their loss."   

Khan enlisted in the Navy in May 2007 and had been assigned to Vella Gulf since Nov. 11, 2019. Khan had previously served on USS San Jacinto (CG 52), Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 2, Submarine Base New London, and USS Decatur (DDG 73).

Khan's military awards include Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (4), Meritorious Unit Commendation, Good Conduct Medal (2), National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.

USS Vella Gulf is on deployment operating in the Mediterranean Sea as part of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group.