Long Island Navy SEAL Remembered as “Born Leader” at Funeral

Navy SEAL Jonathan Kaloust, of Massapequa, was killed during a training exercise

A Navy SEAL from Long Island who was killed last week during a training exercise in Kentucky was remembered at his funeral as a "born leader" who inspired others.

Special Warfare Operator Third Class Jonathan H. Kaloust, 23, died when a Humvee he was riding in overturned at Fort Knox, military officials said.

Kaloust, of Massapequa, joined the Navy in March 2011.

On Friday, Hundreds of people holding American flags lined both sides of the street along Park Boulevard in Massapequa Park, as members of the U.S. Navy made a path for Kaloust's coffin outside the Massapequa Funeral Home.

"Jon was a born leader, he was always someone others wanted to be like, " said Al Bevilacqua, Kaloust's former high school wrestling coach. "Jon's just one of the exceptional kids, and I think the turnout you see from the community is an indication."

Some Massapequa residents who didn't know Kaloust personally said they came out to support his family and to honor his service. 

"I put myself in his family's position and felt very bad for them. We have a very tight community here," said Kathleen O'Connor. "Honor him as he should be."

Under gray skies, a caravan of mourners followed Kaloust's hearse to Long Island National Cemetery where he was to be laid to rest. 

Kaloust is survived by his parents and a sister.

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