BALTIC SEA -- The U.S. Navy identified the Sailor assigned to guided missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) lost overboard while operating in the Baltic Sea August 1, as North Carolina native Seaman Recruit David L. Spearman.
Spearman reported to Arleigh Burke in April following training at Surface Warfare Engineering School Command, Great Lakes, Ill.
"This bright, young man made an oversized, positive impact on Arleigh Burke. My entire crew's thoughts and prayers are with Seaman Recruit Spearman's family and friends. We offer our most sincere condolences for their loss," said Cmdr. Pete Flynn, commanding officer, USS Arleigh Burke. "Thank you to the Swedish and German navies, the U.S. Air Force, and the Sailors from Arleigh Burke for their extensive efforts to search for our shipmate."
