William Goines, America’s first Black Navy SEAL, passed away on June 10, 2024, at the age of 88 in Norfolk, Virginia. Goines made history in 1962 when he became the first African American to serve as a Navy SEAL. His distinguished career included three tours in Vietnam and five years with the Chuting Stars, a Navy parachute team. Goines was recently honored as a Lone Sailor Award recipient, recognizing his significant contributions to the military and his groundbreaking role in diversifying the Navy’s elite forces.
First Black Navy SEAL, William Goines, Dies at 88
