John Larimer, 27, was a Navy sailor based at Buckley Air Force Base, where he was a cryptologic technician – a job that the Navy says on its website should be filled by someone with “exceptionally good character, above-average writing and speaking skills, a good memory, curiosity and resourcefulness.”
Those who knew him described him in similar terms.
Mr. Larimer, who grew up in the Chicago suburb of Crystal Lake, joined the service just over a year ago, the Navy said.
“A valued member of our Navy team, he will be missed by all who knew him. My heart goes out to John's family, friends and loved ones, as well as to all the victims of this horrible tragedy,” said Commander Jeffrey Jakuboski, his commanding officer, in a written statement.
A family member told the Daily Herald newspaper in Arlington Heights, Ill., that Mr. Larimer was the youngest of five siblings. Neighbours in his hometown recalled his sense of humour.
“We love you, John, and we will miss you always,” his parents said in a statement.Larimer family/The Associated Press