The crew of the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) committed the cremains of 15 deceased military members during a burial at sea ceremony, Feb. 17.

"In a ceremony that acknowledges their service to our nation, and calls upon the powers greater than ourselves in which they placed their faith, we commend their remains to the deep," said Cmdr. Charles Hodges, Boxer's command chaplain. "This is our way of saying a final 'Thank You' for the service the deceased gave in protecting the principles we hold dear."

The ceremony, which many consider a sacred honor, is requested by the military member, their family, or dependents. This tradition is designed to demonstrate honor and commitment to service and their country beyond a military member's life.

"Conducting ceremonies such as a burial at sea gives these Sailors and Marines a chance to see a tradition not many get to witness or participate in," said Chief Religious Programs Specialist Joseph Stroney. "When the names are read during the ceremony, I hope it reignites their passion for being a part of this organization and reminds them that they are a part of something that has happened since the inception of the Navy."

Each department aboard Boxer played a role in conducting the burial at sea. Sailors and Marines volunteered to carry the remains of each fallen service member.

"Being able to contribute to this event was humbling," said Personnel Specialist 3rd Class Andrew Cipolla. "Seeing the new ranks of Sailors paying their respects to the Sailors that have stood in our same place and have made sacrifices to get us to where we are today is truly an honor."

More than 4,500 Sailors and Marines from Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit are transiting the Pacific Ocean en route to the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet area of operations.

For more news from USS Boxer (LHD 4), visit http://www.navy.mil/.