On Sept. 21, Navy installations will participate in the second annual Bells Across America for Fallen Service Members ceremony to honor those who died while on active duty.

For centuries bells have been used by the Navy for timekeeping, safety, communication, to sound alarms, in ceremonies and to signal the presence of VIPs. During Bells Across America for Fallen Service Members, the bells rung will not signal anyone's presence, instead will toll in their absence.

The primary focus and mission of the Navy Gold Star Program is to provide an unprecedented level of service and commitment to Gold Star Families. Bells Across America for Fallen Service Members recognizes the sacrifices of America's fallen heroes and their Gold Star Families left behind.

Ceremonies are held in association with Gold Star Mother's and Family Day, which is celebrated the last Sunday in September, to honor and remember the sacrifice of our fallen and the loved ones they left behind.

To learn more about Bells Across America for Fallen Service Members ceremonies nearest you contact your Navy Gold Star Coordinator at 888-509-8759 or www.facebook.com/navygoldstar, www.navygoldstar.com, or

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For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Commander, Navy Installations Command, visit www.navy.mil/.