Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) held a remembrance ceremony, organized by the ship's Naval History and Heritage Committee (NHHC), to recognize the 100-year anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I, Nov. 9.

The crew held a two-minute moment of silence, tolled the ship's bell 21 times, and Sailors from the NHHC saluted the national ensign to pay tribute to fallen service members and their families.

"We do our jobs day in and day out and sometimes you can lose sight of what is important about remembering our fallen heroes," said Chief Aviation Electronics Technician Christopher Blakeman, one of NHHC's chief petty officer advisors. "Taking part in something like this is a way to step back and reflect on what the servicemembers who have gone before us went through."

A moment of silence is a tradition practiced throughout the nation at this time of year to reflect on those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. The first minute is intended to honor service members that gave their lives, and the second minute is meant for their families. "It gives us a sense of pride and purpose," said Aviation Electronics Technician 1st Class Nathan Delamar, president of the NHHC. "Remembering our traditions, such as ringing the bells or wearing our dress uniforms, helps us keep in touch with time-honored traditions. When we have ceremonies like these, it helps remind us of principles we may forget about."

The 21 rings of the bell are referred to as the "Bells of Peace". The striking of bells on Theodore Roosevelt signified the ending of WW1 on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month of the year.

"It makes me feel proud to be a Sailor," said Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class Justin Byrd, a member of NHHC and participant in the ceremony. "It's always good to commemorate those who have come before us, because we wouldn't be where we are today without them. It shows a solidarity between us and veterans we have today."

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