4/15/1994
LCDR Don Hone grew up in Celina, Ohio, graduated from the Ohio State University in 1982 and from Navy OCS in 1984.
LCDR Hone deployed aboard the USS Detroit, USS Nimitz and was a Plank Owner and the first Executive Officer of the USS Patriot. He also served at EOD Mobile Units 1 and 6. His awards include: Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal x2, Navy Unit Commendation Medal, Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Battle “E”, National Defense Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Expeditionary Ribbon, Sea Service Ribbon x3, Navy Rifle Marksman Expert, Navy Pistol Marksman Expert.
LCDR Hone was injured during a diving accident in Guam on April 8, 1994 and died from complications on April 15, 1994 at the Naval Hospital, Guam. His remains are buried at the Swamp College Cemetery in Celina, Ohio. Don is survived by his wife Tamara, son Russ and daughters Raina and Naomi.
Don Hone was my XO. We were both LTs at the time but he was 9 years senior about to make O4. Tension was high at the time. Once I told him to get the eff out of my office. He didn’t throw the UCMJ at me. He forgave like a Christian. He was the Protestant worship leader. He was one of the few guys who didn’t drink or cheat on his wife. His dignity and military bearing greatly influenced my coming fully to Christ. I want to apologize to him Tammy and his daughters wherever they are. I bore a lot of guilt about his death for reasons I’m not going to mention.
Improvise adapt and overcome is a motto I use all the time. Hooyah easy day. Forever. See you in heaven brother in Christ, warrior, man of God. I’m crying now so I’m leaving it at that. Thank you also to a great man CAPT? Michael J OMoore.