Burial at sea if a long-standing naval tradition, aboard Lake Champlain there ceremony started with “all hands bury the dead,” being passed over the announcement system and the crew fell silent throughout the ship, honoring those being laid to rest. During the ceremony, the ship and crew preformed the burial of 18 service members and two spouses.

“The officers and crew of the USS Lake Champlain were honored and privileged to have performed the committal ceremony, honoring the final wishes of our brothers and sisters in arms,” said Capt. Steven Foley, the ship’s commanding officer.

Burial at sea contains both military and religious ceremonial traditions. Religious Program Specialist 2nd Class Kyra Wisnicky oversaw the religious elements of the ceremony.

“The committal ceremony blended religious and military elements, and reflected on the service and life of the service members and their spouses,” said Wisknicky.

As the flag was placed at half mast, Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Dylan Tizio, a lay leader aboard Lake Champlain began the ceremony with a reading from the Book of Psalms and a prayer for our fellow service members awaiting burial.

Then the honor platoon, compromised of 12 Sailors of all ranks and rates, paid their respects to each individual. Lake Champlain’s rifle detail, led by Chief Gunner’s Mate Aaron Tow presented a 21-gun salute, and Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Christopher Booth played “Taps.”

The ceremony concluded with a rendition of “Amazing Grace” played by Lt. Cmdr. Austin Fleming on the bagpipes.

The families of the deceased will receive a flag flown from the mast, a chart marking their final resting place, and a personal note from the commanding officer.

The ceremony was conducted with the upmost dignity and respect for those who passed and their loved ones who survive them,” said Foley.