We Remember

While on active duty in the US Navy, I was privileged to be the Officer-In-Charge of a first-of-its-kind land-based test site in Ronkonkomo, NY, out on Long Island. One of my crew at that time was a First Class Petty Officer named Robert Shippe. He went on to accomplish great things in the Navy, the last of which was to give his all. Read on below. Today I remember Shippie and all the Shippies who gave their all.

Senior Chief Petty Officer Robert Lawrence Shippee was a highly regarded member of the United States Navy, serving as a Fire Control Senior Chief aboard the USS Stark (FFG-31). He was born on June 10, 1951, and hailed from Adams Center, New York. Shippee was killed in action on May 17, 1987, when the USS Stark was struck by two Iraqi Exocet missiles in the Persian Gulf during the Iran-Iraq War

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At the time of the attack, Shippee was 35 years old and had served nearly 18 years in the Navy. He was the senior chief of fire control, responsible for overseeing the ship’s computer tracking systems for missiles. Shippee had recently lived in Ponte Vedra, Florida, near his home port of Mayport. He left behind his wife, Carol, and three children: Patricia (12), Timothy (10), and Brian (8)

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Shippee was remembered as a dedicated professional and a devoted family man. His funeral was held at the Seventh Day Baptist Church in Adams Center, with a large community turnout and full military honors, including a 21-gun salute and the presentation of the American flag and Purple Heart to his widow

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His legacy is honored in military tributes and memorials, recognizing his sacrifice and service in the line of duty.

We remember.