The USS Peleliu begins its participation in RIMPAC later this week. But before the ship arrives in Hawaii for the multinational naval exercises, the Peleliu crew conducted burials at sea to honor 22 deceased veterans and military family members.
According to USS Peleliu Public Affairs, you're eligible for burial at sea honors if you're active-duty or retired military, or the family member of someone who's serving. And although it's a Navy honor, the deceased can be a member of any branch of the military.
The U.S. Navy Chaplain assigned to the Peleliu, Lt. Tung Tran, explained the meaning behind burials at sea:
“It’s important to remember the service of the people who served in the different branches of the military and also their family members. They would be pleased to know that we honor the wishes of the dead and their family.”
Peleliu sailors volunteered to serve as casket and cremains bearers during the burial at sea ceremony, which included a 21-gun salute and piping from the Honor Boatswain's Mate.
The USS Peleliu departed Naval Base San Diego on June 17 for a scheduled deployment to the Western Pacific.
