We don’t want the week to end without remembering those lost in the tragedy referred to as ‘Fighting Fitz’ that happened four years ago, as well as the survivors who still suffer the memories of that day. Our hearts are always with those families and sailors.
On June 17th, at 1:30 am, Japan time sailors on the USS Fitzgerald were jolted awake in their bunks; their guided-missile destroyer had just collided with a cargo ship off the coast of Japan. As families got word of the collision, they waited, prayed, and begged the worst news would not befall them. Worry rose as grief for those aboard swelled, and then, seven families got the worst information they could ever receive. Seven brave men perished that early morning; seven families had their lives changed forever.
On the anniversary of this horrific event, we must never forget these men, their families, loved ones, and all those men and women aboard the ‘Fighting Fitz” that tragic morning.
Please take a moment and say a prayer for the families. Sailors, we remember you, we thank you for your brave and selfless service to our country, and we stand with your loved ones.
– Gunner’s Mate Seaman Dakota Kyle Rigsby, 19, from Palmyra, Virginia
– Yeoman 3rd Class Shingo Alexander Douglass, 25, from San Diego, California
– Sonar Technician 3rd Class Ngoc T Truong Huynh, 25, from Oakville, Connecticut
– Gunner’s Mate 2nd Class Noe Hernandez, 26, from Weslaco, Texas
– Fire Controlman 2nd Class Carlosvictor Ganzon Sibayan, 23, from Chula Vista, California
– Personnel Specialist 1st Class Xavier Alec Martin, 24, from Halethorpe, Maryland
– Fire Controlman 1st Class Gary Leo Rehm Jr., 37, from Elyria, Ohio