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Austin Irby Obituary
As a SEAL, he reported to his first command, SDVT-1, in 2012 after completing BUD/s with class 285. Austin became a fixture at the command as a Dive Supervisor and Mission Specialist, serving first with Task Unit Delta and then Task Unit ONE during the conduct of a sensitive maritime tasking in support of national objectives. Desiring to professionally diversify, he transferred to SEAL Team Two, deploying to Somalia twice as a Sniper.
Returning to SDVT-1 in 2020, Austin assumed the role of Leading Petty Officer for Task Unit ONE throughout Unit Level Training and preparations for a maritime special operation. He became one of nine active SEALs to be certified as a Senior Mountaineer by the Army Special Operations Mountain Warfare Center and looked forward to using the qualification as the lead NSW Mountain Warfare instructor in Kodiak, Alaska.
He has been awarded the Bronze Star, Navy Commendation Medal (two awards), Navy Achievement Medal (three awards), as well as various personal and unit awards for his dedication and service.
"Big Irb" was a force to be reckoned with, and the halls of SDVT-1 have gotten smaller without him.
In every circle, Austin was known for his humor, kindness, and independent spirit. He was a thoughtful and loving son, beloved brother, valued teammate, and a joy to the lives of many. He loved being outdoors, the state of Florida, and U.S. history. He is survived by his parents Mark R. Irby and Debbie L. Irby, brother Logan Irby and his wife Julia Irby - all reside in Lakeland.
The family encourages a donation to the Navy SEAL Foundation. Contributions can be made online by visiting www.navysealfoundation.org/donate or by mail at Navy SEAL Foundation, 1619 D Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23459. You may include "In memory of Austin Irby".
To send flowers to the family of Austin, please visit our floral store.
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Sarah K
July 8, 2024
Irby Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I didn´t know Austin for a long time but we met in March 2022 while I was on a work assignment in Florida. He was exactly the person I needed to meet during that time in my life. He renewed my joy in continual learning, reading, and traveling. He seemed like such a thoughtful and caring man. My deepest condolences. Sarah from Kentucky
Dave Eber
November 5, 2022
My deepest condolences to Austin's family. I met Austin in 2012 or 2013 here in Hawaii and he was one of the nicest, kindest most humble hero's I have ever met. I just learned the news today and can't believe it. He was such a great man. Our country and our world are lesser places without him.
Sam Veraldi
September 11, 2022
To a fellow gator, loving son and great husband. Special thanks for your incredible service to our country. You established a standard for so many to live by. You will be in our prayers.
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Kathy and Mike Mullens
September 9, 2022
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Carl David
September 9, 2022
Prayers and Condolences
Rest in Peace & Honor Brother...
Brandon Haley
September 9, 2022
Austin was a great friend from a great family. He made everyone proud through his drive and accomplishments. He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten!
Love,
Brandon and Liz Haley
FA Tina Krugler
September 9, 2022
To the Irby Family,
I too was one of the crew that brought Austin from HNL-DFW!...
It's always an honor to carry soldiers to and from the mainland and so heart wrenching when we carry a fallen soldier on our flight...Praying that you and your family find peace and comfort during this time.
Sincerely,
FA Tina Krugler
DFW
Shannon Strong
September 8, 2022
To The Irby Family,
I did not know your beloved Austin, but I was on the crew that brought him closer to his home from Honolulu. My prayers are with you, as well as with the men in uniform on our flight as Escorts. I´m so very very sorry for your loss. My crew knew we were bringing home a hero. May God wrap his loving arms around you at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Shannon Strong
American Airlines Sr. Flight Attendant
Red Fair
September 8, 2022
In our Thoughts and Prayers Red & Sandy Fair
Julie IRBY Sannicandro
September 3, 2022
Mark and Debbie,
I have been blessed to know and love Austin since the day he was born. He brought so much laughter, kindness, compassion to so many. His character and integrity were beyond measure. His love for his family was never ending. My prayers continue as you all walk this hard journey.
Julie Irby Sannicandro
Diane Womble
September 3, 2022
To the Irby family-
I am saddened and sorry for the loss of your son Austin.
I personally didn´t know Austin but what an amazing individual and the legacy he has left behind is nothing short of incredible.
The world needs more Austin´s.
With love,
Diane Womble
Donna Rodocker
September 3, 2022
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Dee Womble
September 3, 2022
Dear Mark and Debbie,
My deepest sympathy for your loss. My heart goes out to you. What a wonderful young man Austin was.
Sincerely,
Dee Womble
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