Capt. Wesley A. Smith was known as a well-respected, funny man who friends say was passionate about working on the water. He was found dead in a fire at his home at Naval Air Station Jacksonville on Saturday.
But beyond the ship, he was a loving family man and a mentor.
“Ultimately he was a dad and he was a husband and he was a great guy,” said Nathan Rowan, Smith’s shipmate.
Fire crews found him unresponsive Saturday. He was rushed to the hospital where he died.
Rowan said he looked up to the 25-year veteran.
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“The fact that I had just talked to him that morning and we laughed quite a bit we had some heartfelt conversations it hit hard,” Smith said.
It’s a hit nearly 300 soldiers aren't taking easily.
Smith commanded the USS Philippine Sea ship since 2013. He's also completed missions across the globe.
“In a couple weeks that would've been my first opportunity to get underway and sail with Capt. Smith, but I will never have that opportunity,” Rowan said.
Rowan said now their main mission will be to take care of the wife and children Smith leaves behind.
A memorial in Smith’s honor is being planned.
WJAX
