Photo By Seaman Spencer Staggs | Sailors assigned to the world's largest aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78),...... read more read more
Sailors, Marines, and guests gathered at the Riverfront Convention Center to commemorate the U.S. Navy’s 250th birthday and celebrate two and a half centuries of strength, sacrifice, and service, Oct. 18.
Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Christopher Williams opened the ceremony by extending a welcome to everyone in attendance and introducing the official Navy 250th birthday video, narrated by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle.
The message reflected upon the Navy’s origins in Philadelphia in 1775 and its evolution into today’s global maritime force. It described the Navy as “the shield of our Nation—the foundry where Sailors are forged, the fleet that stands ready on every horizon, and the fight—our promise—that when challenged, America will win.”
Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Jennifer Gratiano led the Prisoner of War/Missing in Action (POW/MIA) Remembrance Table ceremony. Gratiano explained the symbolism of each element and honored those personnel still listed as missing in action. The solemn moment served as a powerful reminder of the Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and Airmen who never made it home.
Retired Command Master Chief James G. Parlier served as the honored guest and keynote speaker. Parlier was the command master chief aboard USS Cole (DDG 67) during the terrorist attack on October 12, 2000—an event that deeply impacted the Navy and the nation. His speech linked the Navy’s 250-year legacy to one of its most significant moments in history.
With the banner “Don’t Give Up the Ship” displayed behind him, Parlier recounted the harrowing details of that day, when a suicide bomber detonated an explosive alongside the ship while it was refueling in Aden, Yemen. The blast tore a 40-by-60-foot hole in the port side of the hull, killing 17 Sailors and injuring dozens more.
Despite catastrophic flooding, fire, and destruction, the crew’s training, leadership, and determination prevailed. For 96 hours, they fought to keep their ship afloat—battling not only flooding and fires but also grief, exhaustion, and uncertainty.
“They refused to give up the ship,” said Parlier. “Those Sailors embodied everything our Navy stands for—courage, unity, and the determination to fight on no matter the odds.”
Parlier’s remarks echoed the CNO’s 250th birthday message, highlighting the heroism aboard Cole and the long line of Sailors who have safeguarded freedom across every ocean since 1775.
His reflections honored the fallen, the survivors, and the families who continue to carry the legacy of that day—reminding those in attendance that the Navy’s true strength is in the resilience of its people.
The legacy of USS Cole remains an enduring symbol of courage, teamwork, and sacrifice. Parlier continues to support the families of the fallen and his shipmates who experienced that day, making sure their bravery and duty are never forgotten.
The ceremony concluded with the cutting of the Navy Birthday Cake, a longstanding tradition symbolizing the transfer of naval heritage from the oldest to the youngest Sailor present.
Following the ceremony, laughter and camaraderie filled the room as attendees reflected on the Navy’s enduring mission and the sacrifices that continue to shape it.
As the Navy celebrates 250 years of honor, courage, and commitment, Sailors today stand on the shoulders of those who came before, prepared to serve, ready to fight, and always mindful of the creed that has guided them through every challenge: “Don’t Give Up the Ship.”
The Center for Security Forces provides specialized training to more than 20,000 students annually in Force Protection, Expeditionary Warfare, Code of Conduct, Law Enforcement, and Small Craft Operations. Its training facilities, located across the United States and abroad, reflect the motto: “Where Training Breeds Confidence.”
| Date Taken: | 10.18.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 11.19.2025 14:02 |
| Story ID: | 551749 |
| Location: | NEW BERN, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 149 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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