★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★
LCDR Mark Ehlers, USN '84 was lost on February 4, 1997 when the S-3 Viking aircraft he was piloting crashed into the Mediterranean Sea. Three other crewmen were also lost; they were members of member of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 22 and operating from USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71).
From the April 1997 issue of Shipmate:
Mark was native of Yucaipa, CA and entered the Naval Academy on 8 July 1980 with the Class of 1984. While at the Naval Academy he starred on the nationally ranked rugby team and earned a degree in oceanography. Following graduation, Mark reported to NAS Pensacola where he achieved his Wings of Gold and was designated a Naval Flight Officer in May 1986. It was in Pensacola that Mark met and married his partner in life the former Susan Imhof. Mark was qualified as a Tactical Coordinator in the S-3 in VS-41 in San Diego in 1987 and reported to VS-28 in Jacksonville, FL. With the Gamblers of VS-28, "Eels" made two deployments onboard FORESTAL. He was then assigned to the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA where he earned an MS in operations analysis. Mark then reported back to Cecil Field where he made one deployment with VS-31 aboard GEORGE WASHINGTON and finally to VS-22 where he was serving as the squadron Administrative Officer.
Mark brought everything he did an energy and a love of life that was unsurpassed. There was nothing false or hidden about Mark Ehlers. It was these qualities that bonded him to everyone he came in contact with. Whenever Mark moved on, he left behind a cadre of best friends. By his example he has permanently changed the lives of those who knew him. His unquenchable desire to always do just a little more or a little better was contagious and will be his legacy. Many people talk of making a difference; Mark made a difference. He not only made this world a better place, but he provided promise for our future with the time, love and guidance he gave our children. Whether it was coaching softball, teaching his own kids or lovingly holding a friends child in his arms, Mark was an inspirational role model.
Mark is survived by his loving wife Sue; his three children: Katie, Ryan and Elizabeth; his parents: Mell and Sally Ehlers of Banning, CA; his brother and sister-in-law: Kurt and Helen Ehlers of Rio de Janeiro; and countless best friends.
To Honor! ⚓
https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/MARK_A._EHLERS,_LCDR,_USN