Joshua Kaleb Watson
On December 6, 2019, three American sailors were murdered in a terrorist attack at NAS Pensacola. One of whom was 23-year old Ensign Joshua Kaleb Watson. After the loss of their son, Watson’s parents addressed several areas of concern regarding the investigation of the events at NAS Pensacola. Their efforts, in collaboration with the Alabama Congressional Delegation, resulted in several key changes to the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act. Although these changes became law, many provisions remain unimplemented to this day. This lack of concrete change leaves critical safety measures incomplete and service members vulnerable.
Our Foundation
Ensign Watson was a courageous, honorable young man committed to serving our country. Because of this tragedy, the Joshua Kaleb Watson Foundation was established with the mission to promote the safety and security of the brave men and women in the United States Armed Forces. With Ensign Watson’s story and spirit guiding its work, the foundation continues to advocate for meaningful reforms, raise awareness about the security risks service members face, and support efforts that directly help protect those who dedicate their lives to defending our nation. The foundation remains committed to pushing for real progress so that the reforms sparked by this tragedy lead to lasting improvements that Ensign Watson would have wanted for the men and women serving alongside him.
What can I do?
- When you visit our state you can play Sweet Home Alabama
- Lift a glass of Miller Lite
- Reach out to your local radio station on December 6th at 6PM play Let it Be Christmas
- Make a contribution to our cause
Timeline
Over the years
Summer 2018
While a midshipman, Watson took his first flight aboard an F-18 Super Hornet. As one of his first experiences in naval aviation training at the United States Naval Academy, this flight introduced him to the skills, procedures, and environment that would form the foundation of his intended career. Images of Watson dressed in full flight gear drew comparisons to popular aviation characters and sparked debate about his resemblance to Goose and Maverick. The verdict was that he was a true Iceman!
May - November 2019
A successful student, Watson graduated from the United States Naval Academy on May 24, 2019, with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He marked the end of his schooling and the first step toward his naval career during commissioning week alongside his parents and two brothers. He also celebrated his 23rd birthday just two days before his graduation ceremony. On November 15, 2019, he reported to Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida, to start flight school.
December 6, 2019
On December 6, 2019, Ensign Joshua Kaleb Watson was killed in a terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola. He was shot six times by a Saudi terrorist, who also took the lives of two other American sailors. At the young age of 23, Watson’s service and life were robbed from him after just a few weeks of flight school. These facts are documented in reports of the incident and form the basis for subsequent actions taken by his family. Then, the Joshua Kaleb Watson Foundation was established.
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Summer 2018
While a midshipman, Watson took his first flight aboard an F-18 Super Hornet. As one of his first experiences in naval aviation training at the United States Naval Academy, this flight introduced him to the skills, procedures, and environment that would form the foundation of his intended career. Images of Watson dressed in full flight gear drew comparisons to popular aviation characters and sparked debate about his resemblance to Goose and Maverick. The verdict was that he was a true Iceman!
May – November 2019
A successful student, Watson graduated from the United States Naval Academy on May 24, 2019, with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He marked the end of his schooling and the first step toward his naval career during commissioning week alongside his parents and two brothers. He also celebrated his 23rd birthday just two days before his graduation ceremony. On November 15, 2019, he reported to Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida, to start flight school.
December 6, 2019
On December 6, 2019, Ensign Joshua Kaleb Watson was killed in a terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola. He was shot six times by a Saudi terrorist, who also took the lives of two other American sailors. At the young age of 23, Watson’s service and life were robbed from him after just a few weeks of flight school. These facts are documented in reports of the incident and form the basis for subsequent actions taken by his family. Then, the Joshua Kaleb Watson Foundation was established.