Oh wow, Wyo, that's awful about your friend! I think it's the worst when things like that just happen suddenly with no warning. My heart goes out to his poor kids, especially the 10 year old. I hope she has supportive and loving relations who will be there and take care of her.
Never been on an aircraft carrier, but I did get a private tour of a submarine when I interviewed at a naval base in CT some years ago, very cool, although I had to keep ducking not to hit my head on the ceiling and I'm not even tall, (only 5' 7"). Makes me wonder how a tall person would cope with that.
Cheers,