Commander of USS Truman dies suddenly

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PORTSMOUTH, Va., Nov. 9 (UPI) -- The commander of the U.S. aircraft carrier Harry S. Truman has died suddenly at a hospital in Portsmouth, Va.

Capt. Tushar R. Tembe became sick Tuesday morning, The Virginian-Pilot reported, citing sources. He died shortly after his arrival at Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center.

The Navy refused to confirm his death, saying there is a 24-hour waiting period to make sure family members are notified, the Pilot said.

Tembe, who had been in the Navy for almost 30 years, took command of the Truman this summer.

A native of India, Tembe grew up in New York. He received a bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering from Texas Tech University before joining the Navy.

Tembe trained as a fighter pilot, serving aboard the carriers Enterprise and Forrestal. He was also a test pilot and pilot instructor and received a master's degree from the Naval War College.

Before he was appointed to the Truman, Tembe had a top staff job with Joint Forces Command in Norfolk, Va.