Ocean County Leader

In a report mandated by legislation from Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), the U.S. Department of Defense Inspector General has highlighted improvements following the death of Kyle Mullen, while urging the Navy to reassess medical capabilities during Navy SEALs Hell Week training. The report questions whether current medical and communications equipment can "provide the appropriate standard of care" and if staffing requirements "meet clinical demand."

Rep. Smith stated, “The new policies following Kyle’s death are welcomed, yet they underscore the grave unnecessary risks that SEAL candidates faced before the critical changes were implemented.”

Smith noted that the IG report aligns with findings from a May 2023 Navy investigation into Mullen's death, which identified "failures across multiple systems" leading to high risk of injury for candidates due to inadequate medical monitoring and care.

Acute pneumonia was determined as the cause of Mullen's death in February 2022. In response, one new policy includes administering prophylactic antibiotics to prevent infections like cellulitis and pneumonia. Additionally, one or two medical personnel are now required on-site for all Hell Week evolutions.

The IG also reports significant improvement with the establishment of a Recovery Observation Center (ROC) in August 2023 for closer medical oversight during and after Hell Week.

Smith commented on these changes: “It is clear as day that there were significant medical shortfalls and lapses when Kyle Mullen and others were training during Hell Week in 2022, and the change is good.” However, he emphasized ongoing concerns about meeting clinical needs.

The Navy has been given 90 days to respond to recommendations from this evaluation.

Smith’s measure named “Kyle Mullen Naval Safety Enhancements” was passed by the House in July 2022 as part of Section 745 in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023. It directed a comprehensive review by the Inspector General for improved medical care in Navy SEAL training.

Acknowledging Regina Mullen’s efforts, Smith said her advocacy led to these improvements: “Regina’s courageous and relentless advocacy...has resulted in direct improvements for those who are training for some of our Nation’s most critical missions.”

He added, “The incredibly tough, brave young men who step up to serve our great Nation deserve the best medical care...Regina’s heroic work will no doubt save other young men from injury and even death.”