Marine Corps combat veteran Steven M. Lipscomb spent his life protecting others — and in the end, he gave everything to do it one last time.

A routine shift turned catastrophic

The 42-year-old foreman, husband, and father from Elkview, West Virginia, lost his life on Nov. 8 while making sure every member of his crew escaped a sudden flood at the Rolling Thunder Mine.

“All of West Virginia mourns the loss of this courageous man,” West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey said, adding that Lipscomb “spent his final moments ensuring his men could escape to safety.”

According to officials, a routine shift turned catastrophic when an old mine wall was compromised, unleashing a massive surge of water. Lipscomb was last seen making sure his crew got out and every single one survived. He did not.

“Lipscomb, the foreman, stood his ground until every member of his crew was evacuated. The water filled the shaft, making escape impossible,” Gov. Morrisey said.

Rescue teams worked around the clock for five days before finding his body.

According to Morrisey, rescue crews were finally able to enter the Rolling Thunder Mine around 6 a.m., once the water inside had “receded sufficiently.” About 90 minutes later, a two-man team located Lipscomb’s body.

“His actions to ensure the safety of his crew members were heroic,” said Alpha CEO Andy Eidson. “We extend our prayers and deepest sympathies to his wife, two children and all who knew and cared for him.”

Survived roadside bomb in 2004

Lipscomb was no stranger to bravery.

A Marine rifleman, he fought in the First Battle of Fallujah and survived a roadside bomb just seven days later. His wife Heather said his Marine training shaped the man he always was: selfless, steady, and willing to risk everything for others.

“I think Steven was a very selfless person. He had 17 men on his crew in the coal mines. He was more worried about everybody else getting out and getting to safety, more than he was concerned about himself,” Heather Lipscomb told U.S Department of War.

Steve, as he was affectionately known, earned a Purple Heart, served his country, protected his community, and built a respected career in mining.

According to company CEO Andy Eidson, Lipscomb began working for Alpha Metallurgical Resources Inc. in 2006. Eidson remembered him as “a dedicated employee, respected leader and friend to many.”

Wife and two daughters

Lipscomb climbed the ranks to become a foreman in 2015. At home, he was a loving husband and devoted father to two daughters, ages 13 and 17.

After serving his country, Steve met the love of his life, Heather Archer, and the two married, building a life filled with love and dedication. His greatest joy came from raising their daughters, Greer and Stella.

“Steve’s life will forever be an example of service and sacrifice,” said Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.

Vice President JD Vance, also a Marine veteran, honored him simply: “A great American. Semper Fi, Steve.”

As West Virginia grieves, Gov. Morrisey shared a sentiment felt far beyond state lines: “Mining is more than an industry here — it’s a brotherhood… When tragedy strikes, we grieve together, we stand together, and we support one another as one West Virginia family.”

The 29th mining-related death this year

Lipscomb’s heartbreaking passing became the 29th mining-related death reported this year, according to Coal Zoom, a trade outlet that closely tracks the industry alongside the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

Five miners have tragically died in West Virginia this year, the most of any state.

Steve Lipscomb lived — and died — protecting others. His courage carried him through war, through injury, and through danger underground. And to the very end, he chose others first.

A husband. A father. A Marine. A hero.

His legacy will not be forgotten.