On December 5, 2014, the USS Carney (DDG64) sailed out to honour members of the US armed forces. They scattered the ashes of Vets out to sea.
Who Was Honoured in The Scattering Ashes Ceremony?
There were many individuals that were honoured in the ceremony. Here is a list of those that we remembered.
- Lt. Cmdr. Ricardo R. Rodriguez
- Commissaryman 2nd Class Herber J. Beach
- Master Chief Aviation Maintenance Administrationman Frank M. Gunther, Jr.
- Aviation Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Eugene C. Allomong
- Senior Chief Culinary Specialist John E. Reed
- Machinery Repairman 3rd Class Allen B. Green
These men were honoured for their service to their country and how they served during war times in these positions.
What Else Happened at the Scattering of Ashes Ceremony?
One of Carney’s lay leaders, Lt. Milo Gordic, gave a brief service where he read Bible passages, prayed, and remembered those that had passed on.
All that were scattered at sea were given proper military honours. As each member was laid to rest, a prayer was said. The ceremony concluded with taps and a 21 gun salute.
Feel free to check out the rest of the story about the scattering ashes at sea service.
Why Do We Scatter Ashes at Sea?
This is a practice that has gone back to ancient times. Some of this was for practical reasons, because it was easier to burn the remains of an individual. Certain religions call for cremation.
Today, those that are out to sea often, tend to want their ashes scattered in the place they call home. It only makes sense that someone who spends all their time in the ocean would want their bodies laid to rest in the sea.
Are There Regulations For Scattering?
Depending on where you live, there will be different regulations when it comes to laying your loved one to rest out to sea. Typically, you would make sure you were a few miles out to sea before you scatter your loved one. Also, you would be sure to not scatter if the wind would take the ashes in the direction of other people.
These are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to keeping those around you safe. Laying a loved one to rest out in the ocean can bring peace to your soul. It is a practice worth keeping up.