John Robert Elliott was born November 17, 1977 and grew up in Egg Harbor Township, at the New Jersey shore.

Even as a child, it was clear John had a gift for loving life and loving people. He was a natural leader and, throughout his life, everyone who met John immediately liked him.

John was also an achiever - a National Merit Scholar, President of his graduating class in high school, a member of the football and tennis teams.

At the Naval Academy John was a squad leader and platoon commander, a member of the 5th Battalion and Regimental championship racquetball team. He distinguished himself as a Human Education Resource Officer (HERO) elected by his peers to counsel and mentor his fellow midshipmen. Known as "Jumbo" to his friends because of his big smile and caring heart, John was honored as the outstanding HERO in his graduating class. He was also a literacy volunteer in the Annapolis area school system, and a discussion leader for the Plebe Summer Character Development Seminar series. John was consistently recognized for his achievements in academics, leadership and athletics. He was a true officer and a gentleman.

HERO – Origin of the name John distinguished himself as a Human Education Resource Officer (HERO) at the Naval Academy. HERO’s are elected by their peers to counsel and mentor other members of their company. John was selected as the outstanding HERO in his graduating class.

Remembering a shipmate: Ensign John Elliott – from the Naval Academy's Character Quarterly, Summer 2000

John was eagerly preparing to enter Naval Flight School in September with his Academy roommate Matt Morgan. He was nearing his long-cherished goal to become a Naval Flight Officer when he was taken from us. John would have been a great naval aviator and a leader throughout his life - a credit to his family and to his country.

At a Naval Academy ceremony before 4000 midshipmen on April 25th, 2001, John’s family presented his class ring to the Naval Academy Museum. A crack in the stone was not repaired, letting it symbolize the broken hearts of his family and friends and to serve as a reminder of the tragic effects of drunken driving.

News Coverage - Elliott family donates class ring in his memory

John was a hero to many. His talent, courage, humor, and caring heart will be sorely missed by all who knew him. "I’d go to war with him," said Midshipman 1st class Jason Manus. "I’m definitely a better person for knowing him." Midshipman Kristopher Carter added: "He motivates me to be more like he was. Jumbo always smiled."

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