WAIAPUA‘A BAY, Hawaii — A U.S. Navy sailor is being hailed as a hero after sacrificing his life to save two children struggling in dangerous surf off the coast of Kaua‘i. Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz, 47, stationed at the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) in Barking Sands, leapt into churning waters Saturday afternoon when he saw two young swimmers being pulled into high surf at Waiapua‘a Bay.

The children survived.
Diaz did not.

The Kaua‘i Police Department (KPD) confirmed that Diaz was pronounced dead at Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital despite rapid emergency response and extensive lifesaving efforts. Officials say foul play is not suspected, and an autopsy is pending.

A Sudden Emergency — and a Split-Second Decision

Witnesses told authorities that Diaz reacted instantly when he saw two children — both under 12 — swept into powerful currents as wave heights climbed sharply in seconds. Without hesitation, he sprinted toward the shoreline and plunged into the water, reaching the panicked children as they struggled to stay afloat.

“Everything happened so fast,” one beachgoer said. “One minute they were splashing near the shore, the next the waves were doubling and pulling them out. That man didn’t even hesitate — he just ran in.”

Diaz managed to get both children into calmer water and helped them reach rescuers closer to shore. But as the children regained their footing, Diaz began to slip beneath the surf line.

Ocean Safety Bureau personnel and the Barking Sands Fire and Emergency Services Department rushed into the water, pulling Diaz onto shore moments later. They immediately began CPR.

He was transported by ambulance to Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital, where despite extensive efforts, he was pronounced dead.

Navy Mourns a “Selfless Shipmate”

Pacific Missile Range Facility Commanding Officer Capt. Robert Prince released a heartfelt statement Sunday morning:

“We are heartbroken by the passing of our shipmate and friend, MA1 First Class Jeffrey Diaz. His loss is devastating. His final act was one of pure selflessness — the embodiment of our highest ideals.”

Prince added gratitude for first responders and the community:

“We are grateful to the emergency responders, Sailors, and family members who provided immediate assistance, and we remain committed to supporting his family and those affected as we navigate this difficult time together.”

Fellow sailors described Diaz as a “quiet leader,” a father figure to younger servicemembers, and a man who “never failed to step up when somebody needed help.”

A Life of Service and Sacrifice

Originally from Florida, Diaz served more than two decades in the Navy, specializing in military law enforcement and security operations. At PMRF — the world’s largest instrumented multi-environment range — he was known for a calm presence and deep dedication to protecting others.

“He would’ve done this for anyone,” said a sailor who served with him. “He always ran toward danger, not away from it. That’s how he lived.”

KPD echoed that sentiment:

“The Kaua‘i Police Department extends its condolences to the family and loved ones of Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz during this difficult time.”

Diaz is survived by family members in Florida and by his PMRF community, who are now planning a memorial service on base.

A Hero Remembered

As word of Diaz’s passing spread, tributes poured in from shipmates, Hawai‘i residents, and strangers across the country:

“He gave his life the way he lived it — protecting others.”

“Those children get to grow up because of him. That is the very definition of a hero.”

“We send our deepest respect to MA1 Diaz. May his family find comfort in knowing he saved lives.”

Flags at PMRF are expected to be lowered to half-staff, and grief counseling has been made available to sailors and staff.

Local families returned to Waiapua‘a Bay on Sunday, leaving flowers, leis, and handwritten notes near the shoreline where Diaz made his final rescue. One note from a child read simply:

“Thank you, mister Navy man, for saving us.”

A Final Act That Defines a Legacy

In an age when the word “hero” is often used loosely, the story of Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jeffrey Diaz is starkly, painfully real. His bravery was instinctive. His sacrifice was total. His final action ensured that two young lives — strangers to him — would return home to their families.

On a quiet stretch of Hawaii coastline, amid crashing waves, a sailor fulfilled the core promise of his service:
Protect others, no matter the cost.

And the world is already calling him what he undeniably is:
A true American hero.