US sailor Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV declared missing after going overboard from USS George Washington near the coast of Australia

Missing US Sailor Declared Lost at Sea

A 19-year-old US sailor has been reported lost at sea after he was believed to have boarded the USS George Washington off the coast of Australia.

Identified as Jose Antonio Rivera Lynch IV, he has been missing since July 28, just hours after a positive conversation with his parents. Rivera Lynch worked as an airman for aviation operations on the ship.

His family expressed their deep loss, stating, “Jose has served his country with honor, courage, and unwavering commitment.” They described him as more than a sailor, but also a beloved son and brother whose spirit had a lasting impact on those around him.

The Navy has initiated search and rescue efforts, which included several naval vessels and assistance from Australian defense forces. However, the search was called off on July 30 after covering approximately 2,200 square miles.

Rivera Lynch was last known to be in the Timor Sea when he went missing. He had spoken to his parents just 12 hours prior, mentioning how exhausted he was from long workdays. His father recalled their last conversation, saying, “That was the last thing I said to my son.”

Growing up in Middleburg, Florida, Rivera Lynch was inspired by a family legacy of military service, joining the Navy through a delayed enlistment program while still in high school. He officially joined in June 2024.

His father fondly remembered him as vibrant and humble, proud of his service and family. The family held a memorial service earlier this month, and a naval funeral is set to take place in Yokohama, Japan on September 19.