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ND1 James E. Reyher was a man of honor, dedication, and compassion who had an extraordinary impact on his community, family, and the Navy Diving community. Born in Cambridge, Ohio, and raised in Caldwell, James graduated from Shenandoah High School in 2003 and later earned a degree from Hocking College in 2007. In November 2007, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Mechanical) before reclassifying to the elite and challenging role of a Navy Diver in May 2008.

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James quickly distinguished himself through his expertise, leadership, and commitment to excellence. He rose to the rank of Navy Diver First Class in September of 2012 and served in pivotal roles at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility Detachment Everett, Washington from March 2009 to April 2012 as a Second Class Diver. During his tour, he accepted the position of Leading Petty Officer of his Ship’s Husbandry Diving Detachment. He led, directed, and supervised multiple diving operations to include the change out of the starboard Auxiliary Propulsion Unit on the USS Ford (FFGG 54), and the USS Lincoln (CVN 72) stave bearing replacements on number two and three shafts. He was a member of the Battle Damage Repair team and was deployed to United States Pacific Command where he trained Royal Thai Navy Divers on surface supplied diving operations.

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In April of 2012, James transferred to Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit Two, Virginia Beach, Virginia to serve as a Second Class Diver. He qualified as a Chamber Diving Supervisor, Quality Assurance Inspector, Underwater Ship's Husbandry Specialist, Inside Tender, directed underwater inspections, harbor, port and ship security inspections, including ordnance searching, ship and submarine repair, underwater cutting and welding, and small boat operations.

 

Additionally, James served as a technical expert for diving evolutions for numerous military Special Operations units and took part in numerous expeditionary salvage, special warfare, and demolition projects at home and abroad. He was trained in advanced diving physics, medicine, air & mixed gas diving and rebreather, skills which he later taught to fellow divers at his Expeditionary Command. He was an integral member of the (U1105) Naval Archeology mission, and public relations in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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James dedicated his life to the Navy Diving community, both as an operator and mentor. On February 26, 2013, while conducting diving operations at Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland, he tragically lost his life in a diving accident, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge, leadership, and unwavering commitment to his fellow divers. His contributions continue to shape those who follow in his footsteps.

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ND1 Reyher has qualified as Diving Salvage Warfare Specialist (DSWS). His awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals (two awards), The Navy Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation. His legacy reflects his deep sense of duty, his commitment to his teammates, and the profound impact he had on those fortunate enough to know him. He's remembered as an honorable, caring, and loving man who lived his life with a deep sense of duty and a heart full of compassion. 

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The James E. Reyher Legacy Scholarship celebrates James's memory by supporting individuals who embody his values of perseverance, service, and integrity. Through this scholarship, applicants are encouraged to honor his legacy by pursuing their goals and making a meaningful difference in their communities.