WHEREAS, Petty Officer First Class David M. Tapper, a lifelong resident of the State of New Jersey, graduated from Edgewood Regional High School in 1989; and

WHEREAS, Petty Officer First Class Tapper enlisted in the United States Navy upon graduation and subsequently completed the Navy's Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL Training; and

WHEREAS, Petty Officer First Class Tapper served proudly as a U.S. Navy SEAL, where he had a distinguished military career for more than thirteen years and earned several honors including the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and numerous Good Conduct Awards; and

WHEREAS, Petty Officer First Class Tapper was deployed to Afghanistan in the service of his country; and

WHEREAS, Petty Officer First Class Tapper was a courageous soldier, a loving husband and father of four children who was known for his tremendous bravery, unwavering faith and a devout love for his family; and

WHEREAS, Petty Officer First Class Tapper has made the ultimate sacrifice, giving his life in the line of duty while fighting for our country; and

WHEREAS, Petty Officer First Class Tapper's patriotism and dedicated service to his country make him a hero and a true role model for all Americans and, therefore, it is appropriate and fitting for the State of New Jersey to mark his passing and to honor his memory;

Attest: