2026 Memorial Honor

In Honor of Petty Officer Second Class Noah Tobin

Noah Tobin was born and raised in Valley Center, where the community helped shape his character through hard work, faith, and service to others. From a young age, he understood the importance of being part of something bigger than himself and consistently gave back to those around him.

At St. Stephen Church, Noah served as an altar boy and an usher. Within the community, he stepped up wherever he was needed, helping raise money, distributing food, and supporting those in need. Service was not something he spoke about, it was something he lived.

At 19 years old, Noah answered the call to serve his country, following in his grandfather’s footsteps by enlisting in the United States Navy. He pursued Naval Special Warfare and earned that opportunity through discipline, determination, and relentless effort.

Training at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado was demanding, pushing him to his physical, mental, and emotional limits. Through injuries, illness, and exhaustion, Noah never quit. His resilience and commitment set him apart.

In November 2023, he stood among those who had completed this rigorous training at his pinning ceremony, marking a significant milestone in his service.

Noah was later assigned to Special Boat Team 20 in Virginia. Early in his assignment, when a short notice deployment to CENTCOM in the Persian Gulf became available, he volunteered without hesitation.

During that mission, he participated in multiple high risk maritime special operations, including eight flag verification boardings. His efforts contributed directly to the seizure of more than 12,700 pounds of narcotics, as well as the capture of advanced weapons and components intended for foreign terrorist organizations. His work played a meaningful role in protecting lives and strengthening national security.

For his performance, leadership, and unwavering dedication to duty, Petty Officer Tobin was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, an honor that reflects both his actions and his character. His character left a lasting mark on everyone around him.

Those who served alongside Noah remember him as someone who brought strength and positivity into every situation. He was known for keeping morale high and for his ability to make others laugh, even during difficult moments. He was strong, dependable, and consistently positive. Even in difficult moments, Noah would say: “I’m just happy to be here.” That mindset, gratitude under pressure, is the mark of a true warrior. 

Noah was one of eight children and took great pride in his family. That sense of loyalty, brotherhood, and responsibility carried directly into his service. He stood for the people beside him and was deeply committed to those he served with.

The impact he made did not go unnoticed. In speaking with Noah’s parents, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth reflected on his character saying, “Noah was the type of high- speed guy I would want to have had in my unit. I pray that one of my little boys grows up to be someone like Noah - and I mean that. He had that never-quit courage and tenacity. We will do everything, every day, to try to live worthy of Noah’s sacrifice. We’ll keep fighting for guys like Noah.”

Noah lived with purpose. He served with honor. He led by example.

He is remembered as a son, a brother, a teammate, and a United States Sailor who upheld the highest traditions of naval service. His legacy is one of courage, resilience, and selfless service.

As we honor his life, his service, and his sacrifice, we are reminded of the responsibility to carry those values forward as a community, to stand a little taller, serve a little stronger, and never forget the cost of the freedoms we enjoy.

  • Petty Officer Noah Tobin -
    your service will not be forgotten. Your sacrifice will not be in vain. Fair winds and following seas, sailor.