Navy sailor commended after deadly skydiving mishap

The Escondido community gathered on Monday to pay tribute to Noah Tobin, a 23-year-old San Diego sailor who tragically lost his life in a parachuting accident. The procession for Tobin, a Valley Center native and Navy sailor, commenced in Porterville, where the accident occurred, and concluded at Alhiser-Comer Mortuary in Escondido. Describing Noah's passion for his work, his father, John Tobin, expressed, "He absolutely loved what he did, and there's no doubt in my mind if he had to do it over again, he would." Noah's family, after anxiously awaiting his return since last Tuesday, finally had the chance to reunite with him. Noah's mother, Cindy Tobin, shared that Noah was deeply loving and passionate, with a beautiful soul. Hailing from a family that had a strong Navy tradition, Noah followed in the footsteps of his grandfathers and became a Special Boat Operator, Petty Officer Second Class in the elite Special Warfare Combat Crewman unit. The procession from Porterville to Escondido this morning was a somber affair, with hundreds of individuals from various professions and the community honoring Noah's journey to his final resting place. Noah's family church, St. Steven's Catholic Church, offered support, and at the mortuary, Noah's family and fellow sailors gathered for a quiet prayer led by their priest. Amidst the attendees was Eilyeen Bonica, Noah's first-grade teacher, who fondly remembered Noah and expressed her sorrow over his passing. Escondido's Mayor and Congressman Darrell Issa's office recognized Noah as an American hero and presented his family with a flag and a proclamation in his honor.