Burial at sea if a long-standing naval custom, aboard Lake Champlain there ceremony began with “all fingers bury the useless,” being handed over the announcement system and the crew fell silent all through the ship, honoring these being laid to relaxation. Through the ceremony, the ship and crew preformed the burial of 18 service members and two spouses.
“The officers and crew of the USS Lake Champlain have been honored and privileged to have carried out the committal ceremony, honoring the ultimate needs of our brothers and sisters in arms,” stated Capt. Steven Foley, the ship’s commanding officer.
Burial at sea accommodates each army and spiritual ceremonial traditions. Spiritual Program Specialist 2nd Class Kyra Wisnicky oversaw the non secular components of the ceremony.
“The committal ceremony blended non secular and army components, and mirrored on the service and lifetime of the service members and their spouses,” stated Wisknicky.
Because the flag was positioned at half mast, Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Dylan Tizio, a lay chief aboard Lake Champlain started the ceremony with a studying from the E-book of Psalms and a prayer for our fellow service members awaiting burial.
Then the consideration platoon, compromised of 12 Sailors of all ranks and charges, paid their respects to every particular person. Lake Champlain’s rifle element, led by Chief Gunner’s Mate Aaron Tow offered a 21-gun salute, and Gunner’s Mate third Class Christopher Sales space performed “Faucets.”
The ceremony concluded with a rendition of “Wonderful Grace” performed by Lt. Cmdr. Austin Fleming on the bagpipes.
The households of the deceased will obtain a flag flown from the mast, a chart marking their ultimate resting place, and a private word from the commanding officer.
The ceremony was performed with the upmost dignity and respect for individuals who handed and their family members who survive them,” stated Foley.
