Shane Patton was born on November 15, 1982, in San Diego, California. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on January 10, 2001, and after graduating from basic training at NTC Great Lakes, Illinois, and Machinist's training, he attended Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training, Jump School, and SEAL Qualification training from December 2001 to December 2002. Petty Officer Patton next attended Swimmer Delivery Vehicle training in Panama City, Florida, from January 2003 to April 2004, followed by service with SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team ONE at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, from April 2004 until he deployed to Afghanistan with SEAL Team TEN in April 2005. He was killed in action during Operation Red Wings when the MH-47 Chinook helicopter he was aboard was shot down by an enemy rocket-propelled grenade on June 28, 2005. Shane Patton was buried at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City, Nevada.

His Bronze Star Medal w/Valor Citation reads:

For heroic achievement in connection with combat operations against the enemy while serving as Platoon Petty Officer, SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team ONE, while deployed to Afghanistan in Support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM on 28 June 2005. As part of a Quick Reaction Force, Petty Officer Patton was sent to reinforce a Navy SEAL Special Reconnaissance element engaged in a fierce firefight against a numerically superior Anti-Coalition Military near Asadabad, Konar Province, Afghanistan. The Special Reconnaissance element was under siege from enemy fire in extremely rugged and unforgiving terrain. Demonstrating exceptional resolve and fully comprehending the ramifications of the mission, Petty Officer Patton's element launched aboard a helicopter for direct insertion onto an active battlefield, ready to engage and destroy the enemy in order to protect the lives of their fellow SEALs. While airborne Petty Officer Patton continued working with members of his team to develop the plan of attack to support both a Quick Reaction Force and an urgent execution of the intended deliberate assault. As the helicopter hovered in preparation for a daring fast-rope insertion of the SEALs, the aircraft was struck by an enemy rocket-propelled grenade fired by Anti-Coalition Militia. The resulting explosion and impact caused the tragic and untimely loss of life of all onboard. Petty Officer Patton's bravery and heroism in the face of severe danger while fighting the Global War on Terrorism was extraordinary. By his courageous actions, zealous initiative, and loyal dedication to duty, Petty Officer Patton reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.