Fallen sailors and families honored in “Bells Across America” event

On Thursday, dozens of sailors at the Naval Air Facility El Centro remembered their fallen comrades who lost their lives answering the call of duty.

Each sound from this bell represents a sailor who died in the line of duty while fighting for our freedom.

Religious Program Specialist, Ehrmar Macaraeg said, ” Remembrance of why we serve. Why we’re here to protect. And serve our countries and also and protect our family. So it’s a great reminder to do our best to carry on that honor and courage and commitment. ”

Command Master Chief, Eric Hubert said ” Bells Across America ” reminds service members of their oath to protect our nation.

” Events like this it kind of reinsures the main reason why they did it. In the end we’re here to defend our country at whatever costs it takes. ”

Also paying gratitude to the families left behind by their fallen comrades.

” The sailor, soldier, airman. They’re only as strong as their family support is. And those that don’t have like a bigger family, people to the left and right of them are their family. ”

The Navy’s gold star program helps families of fallen sailors mourn and heal and provides comfort in a time of hardship.
Site director for the Fleet and Family Support Center, Curtis Mclaurin said, ” And you begin to build that rapport with them. And again it’s being careful not to help them remember the negative stuff. But just to kind of let them know that hey they were part of a family. And the family has not forgotten them. And we are here to serve them. ”

For some who put on the uniform every day, it’s a reminder to reflect on those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Hubert added, ” Any person that passes on, it still touches my heart and still makes me choke up a little bit to realize what they did for our country. ”

At least 174 fallen sailors were honored at the ” Bells Across America ” event.