Our Hangar Bay Hero: LTJG Kyle McArthur

Let me tell you a little about my friend, LTJG Kyle McArthur — or as we all knew him, KMAC.

KMAC grew up in Coronado, attended Coronado High School, and went on to graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy with the Class of 2011. That’s where I first met him. We became friends in college, but it was during flight school — when we were roommates — that we grew much closer. He was the kind of person who brought energy, humor, and a sense of calm to even the most stressful days.

KMAC had a wide range of passions — he was an athlete, a leader, and someone who truly loved life. We sailed a little together at the Naval Academy — sailing was one of his greatest joys, especially when he was out on the water with his family.

In 2013, KMAC was tragically killed in a car accident while we were still in flight school. It was a devastating loss, not just to those of us who knew him personally, but to everyone who had the chance to cross his path. He had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and valued — and he left a lasting impact on more lives than many do in a full lifetime.

In his honor, his family started the KMAC Foundation and hosts the annual KMAC Regatta — a celebration of his life and his love of sailing. We’re proud to support the foundation and its mission to expand access to sailing and carry forward the spirit KMAC brought into the world.

He’s no longer with us, but his legacy continues to inspire — through the water, the regatta, and every life lifted up by the work done in his name.

KMAC was posthumously awarded his wings of gold and his name written into the books as a Navy Pilot.