Gary Hersey was born on April 12, 1957, in Newton, Massachusetts. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on October 15, 1975, and completed basic training at NTC San Diego, California, in December 1975. Hersey next attended Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training with Class 088 at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, California, from January to August 1976, followed by Navy Parachutist School at NAATC Lakehurst, New Jersey, from August to October 1976. His first assignment was with Underwater Demolition Team 21 (UDT-21) at NAB Little Creek, Virginia, from October 1976 to October 1977, followed by service with UDT-12 at NAB Coronado from October 1977 to January 1978. Petty Officer Hersey then served back with UDT-21 at NAB Little Creek from January 1978 until he left active duty and joined the Navy Reserve on October 15, 1979. He returned to active duty in the Navy on April 30, 1981, and served with SEAL Team SIX at Dam Neck, Virginia, until he was killed in a parachute training accident at Marana, Arizona, on April 1, 1983.

The Sailor's Creed:

I am a United States Sailor.

I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America and I will obey the orders of those appointed over me.

I represent the fighting spirit of the Navy and those who have gone before me to defend freedom and democracy around the world.

I proudly serve my country's Navy combat team with Honor, Courage and Commitment.

I am committed to excellence and the fair treatment of all.