Earlier this year, a passenger who jumped to his death from the world’s largest cruise ship turned out to be a military veteran who had recently had an argument with his wife and was suffering from PTSD.
On May 26, on the first day of a week-long Royal Caribbean cruise to the Caribbean, retired Lt. Col. James Brian Wright, 53, got into a “physical altercation” with his wife, Tracy Wright, according to a Miami-Dade police report. Acquired by The Independent.
“Immediately following the argument, Mr. Wright left his cabin and traveled to Deck 5, where he entered a securely gated area and jumped overboard,” the report said.
According to the report, Wright was a military veteran who suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after more than 30 years of military service.
The massive ship, carrying 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew members, remained at anchor for about two hours as a search for Mr Wright was launched.
His body was recovered by Royal Caribbean staff but they were unable to revive him.
He was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
Wright’s obituary noted that he was a “decorated veteran who served his country honorably for 30 years” since enlisting in the South Carolina Air National Guard in May 1988.
He served in many capacities and had the honor of presenting numerous Purple Hearts and other prestigious medals to “the many heroes who dedicated their service to protecting the freedoms we all enjoy.” According to his obituary.
Tributes left on his obituary page by former classmates and those who served with him described Wright as a “great human being” and a “good officer and a good friend.”
“I am so saddened by Brian’s passing. He was such a great and fair person. Brian was so humble and always caring and understanding. It was always fun being around him,” one person wrote.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, or Suicide Prevention Lifeline.org.
