It is with the deepest sympathy that we announce the passing of CAPT (ret) Marc Waterman, an American patriot and a Naval Dental Corps legend. Marc retired in October 2014 after celebrating 46 years of distinguished, active duty service. While battling bravely against a recurrence of cancer, Marc tragically passed away on 12 October 2016. Those of us who knew Marc's history as a Marine, SEAL, and Navy Prosthodontist considered him indestructible and were deeply saddened by the news of his passing.

A United States Marine: "First to Fight for Right and Freedom"
Born in Ohio, in June 1946, he completed high school and immediately enlisted in the U.S. marine Corps in 1964 at the height of the Vietnam War. Private Waterman completed basic and infantry training at Parris Island, SC and Camp Geiger, NC. While assigned to VMA-324, MCAS Beaufort, he was accepted by the Marine Corps Aviation (MARCAD) and Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS) programs. PFC Waterman attended NAPS in Bainbridge, MD and subsequently received an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy in 1966.

US Naval Academy and a Navy SEAL
Graduating from the Naval Academy in 1970, Ensign Waterman then entered Basic UDT/SEAL Training Class 015 in Little Creek, VA. During his three year tour as a Frogman, he completed the U.S. Army's Special Forces Officers Course and made numerous deployments to Europe and the Caribbean as a platoon commander. In 1973 LT Waterman reported to Underwater Demolition Team TWENTY-ONE. He served as a platoon commander, head of the Swimmer Delivery Vehicle (SDV) Department, and deployed as a platoon commander to the Mediterranean and Caribbean with Marine Amphibious Ready Groups.

Navy Dentist and Prosthodontist
In 1976 LT Waterman was accepted into the Navy's Dental School Scholarship Program. He attended the University of Michigan School of Dentistry and received his DDS in 1980. His tours of duty included:

Marc was a proud and dedicated student of life and mentor of junior dental officers. Together with Miki, his wife, Marc initiated a 3rd Dental Battalion study club that mentored hundreds of junior officers and enabled them to earn their Fleet Marine Force Warfare Pin. A perpetual and successful student, Marc also earned his Masters of Arts Degree in Management from the University of Redlands in 1994.

Marc was avid about physical fitness, scuba diving and motorcycling. He continued to participate in the PRT during his Retired Retained service and routinely beat his younger colleagues and enlisted staff. He LOVED his time in the Navy, saying it was the best decision he ever made. It was this genuine love for his service to his country that encouraged his sons to join the Army Dental Corps and the Navy Submarine Community.

He is survived by his wife, Miki Waterman, four sons, MAJ Douglas Waterman (USA), Mike Waterman, LT Matthew Waterman (USN), Kevin Waterman, daughter Heather Fitzhugh, and step-daughter Sierra Keanum.

After 46 years of travelling the globe, Marc and Miki purchased their dream home that they could renovate and call their own. CAPT Marc Waterman was a man of few words with an extremely kind heart, who touched many with his actions. Together Miki and Marc made a lifetime of friendships and memories with colleagues and shipmates from the Navy. Marc was a dedicated father, husband, friend, clinician, leader and mentor who will be deeply missed by those who knew him.

Memorial Service will be held Thursday, November 10, 2016 at 1000, Naval Medical Center San Diego Chapel. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in tribute to CAPT Marc Waterman at the Fisher House.

Updated: September 05, 2018
Curator: Ed Moore