It is with great sadness that the Keller family announces the passing of LT.(SEAL) Jack W. Keller on February 22, 2023 at the age of 29.
Jack was born in Southampton, NY to Donald Keller and Tammy Keller.
He graduated from Saratoga Central Catholic High School in 2011 and attended The United States Naval Academy where he was appointed to play baseball as a catcher for four years.
During his time at Annapolis, Jack played 55 games with 26 RBIs, while maintaining a batting average of .190. After remaining on the Patriot League Honor Roll for three years, Jack graduated in 2015 with a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Jack always knew he wanted to become a Navy SEAL. However, after establishing himself as a breakout performer amongst his peers he was initially medically disqualified from the SEAL pipeline due to an injury he sustained while playing baseball. Showing extreme dedication, Jack continued to pursue his goal, and received an exception to policy allowing him to attend Basic Underwater Demolitions/SEAL(BUD/S) training.
After completing SEAL Qualification Training with BUD/S Class 318 and earning his SEAL Trident, Jack reported to SEAL Team TEN. From July 2017 to December 2019, he completed two combat deployments in support of the Global War on Terror, distinguishing himself as a Squad Commander for CHARLIE Platoon
In December 2019, Jack reported to Special Boat Team TWENTY(SBT-20) as Coastal Troop Two's Assistant Troop Commander. During his time at SBT-20, Jack made two deployments to the CENTCOM AOR and led multiple Naval Special Warfare surface platform through patrols in contested waters in support of theater objectives. He became one of the first SEAL officers to earn the Maritime Mission Commander qualification, setting the standard for those who would come after him. Upon completing his tour, Jack was selected to fleet up and become the Troop Commander for CT-2.
Jack loved golf, working out and spending time with friends.
His personal awards include The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Expert M4 Rifle Ribbon, Expert 9mm Pistol ribbon and the Navy Battle "E" ribbon. His service and Campaign awards include the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal and Three Sea Service Deployment Ribbons.
Jack is remembered for his unrelenting focus and complete dedication to everything he did, especially to his SEAL & SWCC teammates. He left a mark on everyone he encountered and his legacy will live on through the memories and stories shared by those who loved him so well.
Jack was predeceased by his brother Kevin Keller.
Jack is survived by his father Donald Keller, his mother Tammy Keller, his sister Lucy Keller, his niece Catherine and nephews Luke and Jack.
Jack will be laid to rest at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, NY.
