US Military Veteran with PTSD Jumped Off Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship After Fight with Wife
A tragic incident unfolded on May 26 when retired Lieutenant Colonel James Bryan Wright, a 53-year-old US military veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), jumped off the Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship. The incident occurred just one day into a week-long cruise with his wife, Tracie Wright.
According to a report from the Miami Dade Police Department obtained by The Independent, the incident took place at around 7.50am. Mrs. Wright informed the authorities that she and her husband were involved in a physical altercation, prompting her to leave the cabin. Shortly after, Mr. Wright exited the cabin and made his way to Deck 5, where he entered a secure gated area and jumped off the ship.
The ship was immediately ordered to stop, and a search for Wright was initiated. He was recovered by Royal Caribbean staff, who performed CPR but were unable to revive him. Wright was pronounced dead shortly after.
Lieutenant Colonel Wright had a distinguished military career spanning 30 years. He began his service in May 1988 with the South Carolina Air National Guard (SCANG). Over the years, he rose through the ranks, becoming a Master Sergeant before being commissioned as an Officer in May 1998. In 2012, he was stationed at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, where he was instrumental in presenting numerous Purple Hearts and other distinguished decorations to soldiers.
After returning home, Wright continued to serve with SCANG until his retirement in September 2018 as Deputy Director of Human Resources-Joint Force Headquarters. His obituary described him as a “decorated veteran who honorably served his country for 30 years” and a compassionate leader who cared deeply for the men and women under his command.
Tributes poured in from those who knew and served with Wright, describing him as “a wonderful human being and just person.” Many spoke of his humility, compassion, and understanding, and expressed their heartfelt condolences to his family.
Wright is survived by his wife, Tracie Wright; son and daughter, grandson, brother, and his mother.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by military veterans with PTSD. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Helpline (1-800-273-TALK) in the USA and Samaritans (116 123) in the UK are available for support.