Nationwide — Jeffrey Diaz, a Navy master at arms and father of five, died saving his 9-year-old son from drowning during a family beach trip on Kauai. What was meant to be a day at the beach turned into tragedy when strong waves pulled the boy into dangerous waters.
According to WFLA, the family visited Barking Sands on Saturday, Nov. 22, when 9-year-old Kamden Diaz was pulled into strong waves. Jeffrey Diaz immediately jumped in, lifted his son onto his back, and battled the surf to bring him to safety.
“At one point, Jeff just took Kamden off his back and said, ‘Okay, Kam, I’m going to get you, I have to get you off my back because I’m going to drown.’ And he said, ‘You got this, I love you, don’t give up,’” said Keyonna Fairley, his partner of 18 years. “That was his last words to our baby. All he wanted was just to get through this tour and retire and make his vows to me and his family.”
Jeffrey and Keyonna met in the Navy and raised five children together: sons aged 29, 19, 12, Kamden, and a 5-year-old daughter. Keyonna said Kamden was terrified but listened to his father. “And I told him, ‘Son, you did exactly what Dad wanted you to do. He sacrificed his life for you because he knew he couldn’t come back,’” she said.
Friends described Jeffrey as loving, protective, and heroic. Julie Jackman said, “Jeff was one of the best men I had ever known, and he showed those babies what true love really was and how a man should treat his family and partner every day. He loved fiercely and deeply and truly was one of a kind.”
Keith Wilson added, “He died doing what he had to do to protect his youngest son. A true hero, always sacrificing himself for good. His life ended so that his legacy could live on.”
Keyonna said she’s leaning on memories and the support of the local and military community while grieving. Funeral arrangements are still in progress, but the family is determined to honor Jeffrey’s spirit and legacy.