James E. Williams Honors Sailors and Soldiers of the Armed Forces

ARABIAN SEA

05.25.2020

Courtesy Story

Carrier Strike Group 10

(ARABIAN SEA) — In commemoration of Memorial Day, the guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) held a presentation on the mess decks, followed by a cake cutting ceremony to honor fallen heroes of the U.S. Armed Forces May 25, 2020.

The Multi-Cultural and Heritage Committee led by Retail Services Specialist 2nd Class Fifonsi Kassouhuin, held a presentation that outlined the history of Memorial Day and concluded with quotes from crew members highlighting family members who have sacrificed for the United States of America.

“Memorial Day is not just a four day weekend; it is a day that we should remember those who have passed so that we are not quick to forget them or their sacrifice,” said Fire Controlman 1st Class Michael Dukes. “It is a day that is important because it brings to light the memory of so many Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, Airmen, and their families, and how they have impacted us as a united military.”

At the conclusion of the presentation, Command Master Chief Bill Worthen addressed the crew about the importance of Memorial Day.

“Memorial Day to me means we honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice protecting our freedoms,” said Worthen. “We all signed up knowing that we could have to give our lives in the defense of others. These men and women in the presentation have done that, we owe them these tributes as they have allowed us to serve in their footsteps.”

James E. Williams is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and Pacific through the Western Indian Ocean and three critical chokepoints to the free flow of commerce.

Story by: Lt. j.g. Jarred Reid-Dixon

• Date Taken: 05.25.2020
• Date Posted: 06.04.2020 18:36
• Story ID: 371421
• Location: ARABIAN SEA