Navy Clears SEAL Commanders in Training Death of Kyle Mullen

The Navy has dismissed proceedings against two SEAL commanders connected to the death of SEAL candidate Kyle Mullen during the demanding Hell Week section of Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training. The judgment was verified by lawyers for the officials, ending the inquiry over their suitability for serving.

Within hours of finishing Hell Week—a physically and psychologically grueling part of BUD/S training—Kyle Mullen passed away. Later on, a Navy inquiry revealed Mullen died from pneumonia. Though Mullen's car was found to have human growth hormone and other drugs, investigators decided he "died in the line of duty, and not due of his misconduct."

Senior medical officer Capt. Bradley Geary of Naval Amphibious Base Coronado in San Diego in 2022 and Cmdr. Erik Ramey had been directed to show cause before boards of inquiry for their further service. 

The Navy's rejection of the cases releases them from additional administrative procedures connected to Mullen's death.

The case has attracted attention to the demanding nature of SEAL training and the obligations of leadership in guaranteeing candidate safety. 

The tragedy continues to be a sobering reminder of the dangers included in elite military training programs even as the investigations have finished.

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