Submarine Group 9 Sailors, veterans, and visitors gathered in remembrance of the Sailors and submarines that were lost during war, during a "Tolling the Boats" observance held at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor's Deterrent Park, May 25.

The observance is held as part of a Memorial Day observance in remembrance of the Sailors and submarines lost at sea during World War II. During the ceremony, a short description of what happened to each submarine is read, followed by the number of Sailors lost on the boat.

A ceremonial bell is then rung in memory of each submarine, as part of the Tolling the Boats observance. Presently, the observance is held to honor and never forget those who gave their lives to protect our freedoms.

"We can't ignore our past," said Capt. Ted Schroeder, chief of staff, Submarine Group 9. "It's important to remember where we came from and to honor the men and women whose legacy we've inherited."

Sailors and veterans came together to salute the fallen and remember what they believed in.

"This is the best part of the Navy," said Paul Christoffeson, World War II veteran. "I joined when I was 17 and my first sub was SS-270 (USS Raton). The USS Lapon fired two torpedoes and struck us, but we ended up continuing on with the patrol during the fourth war patrol."

"We wouldn't have the freedoms today without the sacrifices of the families and the heroes that we are remembering today," said Chief Machinist's Mate Jonathan Corcoran.

In 100 years of submarine service, 60 submarines were lost, with all hands lost on 48 of these submarines, according to http://www.goatlocker.org.

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