Navy Seal Dies in Parachuting Accident

A local man who was on a Navy Seal training mission in Florida has passed away due to injuries he sustained during a parachuting accident, according to press reports, including the New Hampshire Union Leader.

William “Blake” Marston, 31, was killed after a soft landing from a 5,000-foot jump in DeLand, FL.

According to the Union Leader, he grew up in Bedford, attended the Derryfield School in Manchester, where he graduated in 2001. He was an avid baseball player and played for the Stonehill College team. He later decided to join the Navy, specifically to become a Navy Seal, in 2008. Marston’s family later moved to Concord and is reportedly still trying to process the loss.

In a statement, Gov. Maggie Hassan said, “Blake Marston represented the very best of New Hampshire’s long tradition of service, dedicating himself to protecting his fellow citizens and defending the enduring concept of freedom that is our very core. Tom and I join all Granite Staters in mourning, and we send our thoughts and prayers to his family and loved ones.”

U.S. Sen. Kelly Ayotte, R-NH, called Marston “a patriot who served our nation with honor and courage,” adding that the state and country owed its freedom to men like Marston.

“I join all New Hampshire citizens in mourning his loss and honoring his distinguished service. My heart goes out to his loved ones at this very difficult time.”

U.S. Rep. Ann McLane Kuster, D-NH, also issued a statement, saying she was “I’m deeply saddened to hear of the tragic accident that took the life of William ‘Blake’ Marston, who courageously served his country in the Navy for more than six years. His valiant service and dedication to his fellow service members, the Granite State, and the United States of America was an inspiration. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 17, at the Bedford Presbyterian Church.

Courtesy photo.