SOC(SEAL) LANCE MICHAEL VACCARO

(1972-2008)

Chief Special Warfare Operator Lance M. Vaccaro, (SEAL), 35, of Reading, Pa., died from injuries suffered while conducting parachute training operations near Marana, Ariz., March 6, 2008. Lance enlisted in the U.S. Navy on May 29, l99l. He graduated from boot camp at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill., in August and began his first tour ofduty aboard USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73) inNorfolk, Virginia, where he was assigned to the Intelligence Department. Lance graduated frorn Intelligence Specialist "A" School on April 23, 1993. In April, 1994, he transferred to USS KITTY HAWK (CV 63) in Yokosuka, Japan, before entering Basic Undenvater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training in Coronado, Calif., in July 1996.

Following graduation from BUD/S Class 210, he successfully completed the U.S. Army Airborne Course at Fort Benning, Georgia and reported to SEAL Team EIGHT. He completed a deployment with USS ENTERPRISE (CVN 65), and also deployed to Naval Special Warfare Unit TWO, Stuttgart, Germany.

In April 2003, Lance screened for and completed the demanding eight-month training program at Naval Special Warfare Development Group. He served with distinction during his tour at NSWDG where he excelled as a special operator. His perforrnance across the full spectrum of SEAL operations was always marked with dynamic enthusiasm, total commitment to mission success, a quick wit, and the highest regard for the welfare of his teamates. He inspired us all.

His military awards and decorations include Defense Meritorious Service Medal, three Joint Service Commendation Medals including one with Valor, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, four Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, two Combat Action Ribbons, Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Unit Commendation, Navy "E" Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terorism Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal Armed Forces Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, NATO Medal, National. Defense Service Medal, Rifle Expefi Medal, Pistol Experl Medal.

Lance was laid to rest at the National Cemetery Arlington Virginia. A memorial was held at the NAB Little Creek Chapel on Wednesday March l9. He was survived by his father Joseph and mother Christine, his girlfriend Becky, and numerous other friends and Teammates.