NAVAL CONSTRUCTION BATTALION CENTER, Gulfport - Naval Construction Battalion Center Gulfport hosted its annual Bells Across America for Fallen Service Members ceremony at the NCBC Training Hall, Sept. 10.
Each year, Navy installations around the world observe Bells Across America to honor service members who died while serving on active duty and recognize the sacrifices of the Gold Star families they left behind.
“We must move forward, but we have not moved on,” said Capt. Tate Metlen, commanding officer of NCBC Gulfport. “The Navy is stronger, and the nation is better, because of what they gave.”
During the ceremony, NCBC Gulfport Sailors read the names of 205 fallen service members, ringing the bell after each name. Following the reading of the final name, the bell was struck eight additional times, symbolizing the end of watch and honoring all service members who died while serving in the U.S. military.
The annual ceremony is part of the Navy Gold Star Program’s continuing effort to honor fallen service members and maintain relationships with their surviving families.
“This ceremony is more than remembrance,” said Capt. Metlen. “It is a moment to honor not only a life and a career, but the sacrifice carried every day by the family left behind.”
Gold Star families are the surviving family members of service members who died while serving on active duty. The Navy Gold Star Program provides long-term support, resources and services to surviving families and works to maintain their connection with the Navy community.
“To our Gold Star families: your loved ones are not forgotten. You are not forgotten. You are not alone,” he said. “They are family to us. You are family to us.”
For more information about the Navy Gold Star Program and Bells Across America for Fallen Service Members, visit https://www.navygoldstar.com/