JBLM soldier who drowned in American Lake was trying to save his son, family says
A Joint Base Lewis-McChord soldier drowned July 15 while attempting to save his son from drowning in American Lake, according to Facebook posts and a fundraising campaign for his family.
Chief Warrant Officer 3 Hao Y. Li, 41, died at JBLM’s Shoreline Beach Park, according to a statement issued Monday from I Corps.
“We feel deep sorrow over the loss of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Li,” said Lt. Col. Brian Evans, battalion commander. “He was a respected and admired member of Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, and he will be profoundly missed.”
According to a GoFundMe account, Li died while trying to save his son, Bo.
“Bo had slipped into deep water, and both he and Hao had to be resuscitated after drowning,” the post reads. “Unfortunately, Hao did not survive, but Bo is now in stable condition in the ICU thanks to his father’s heroic actions and the efforts of those who performed CPR at the scene.”
As of Tuesday morning, nearly $17,000 had been raised.
“Hao was known for his selflessness and deep love for his family,” the post continues. “His wife Stephanie, mother Kelly Li, and son Bo were the center of his universe.”
According to the Army, Li joined the service in 2005 and held positions in logistics. He became a warrant officer in 2015.
Li deployed twice in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing ground support as the unit supply clerk and supply sergeant for over 200 soldiers on four Forward Operating Bases, according to the Army.
He was awarded numerous medals, awards, ribbons and badges for his service.
Following Li’s drowning, all JBLM beaches were closed for recreational swimming for a safety investigation.
This story was originally published July 23, 2024 at 11:51 AM.
