The San Diego-based SEAL killed in Iraq last week will be posthumously promoted to chief petty officer, the Navy announced Wednesday.
Petty Officer First Class Charles H. Keating IV, 31, was fatally shot in a May 3 battle with Islamic State forces in Tall Usquf, Iraq. According to the Navy, ISIS broke through the front lines north of the city of Mosul, and Keating's SEAL team and air support were called in to repulse the attack.
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The Navy said the promotion will be retroactive to the day of Keating's death.
The announcement came on the day his body was returned to Naval Base Coronado, driven through the city in a motorcade while naval personnel stood at attention.
The Patriot Guard Riders were out in full force. At least 100 showed up to escort his body to the mortuary.
It was only fitting that they drove down the Avenue of Heroes.
Memorial services are scheduled Friday for the SEAL, who grew up in Phoenix as a star long-distance runner and grandson of financier Charles Keating from the 1980s savings and loan scandal.
His remains will be driven through Coronado to the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. The services are private, but the Navy is encouraging the public to line the processional route along Sixth Street in Coronado around noon to pay their respects.
