Does the Navy Still Do Burials at Sea?
Contents
The United States Navy has a rich history of conducting burials at sea, dating back to the early 18th century. The first recorded burial at sea in the American Navy took place in 1798, when Captain Thomas Truxton conducted a burial of a young sailor who died on board the USS Truxton. Since then, burials at sea have been a long-standing tradition in the Navy, with millions of sailors and Marines having been laid to rest at sea over the years.
The Purpose of Burials at Sea
Burials at sea were initially used as a cost-effective way to dispose of the bodies of sailors and Marines who died at sea. However, the tradition has since evolved to encompass a sense of dignity, respect, and closure for the families of those who have died in service to their country. In the modern era, burials at sea are carried out primarily for two purposes: to provide a respectful and meaningful way to dispose of the remains of military personnel, and to support the psychological well-being of their loved ones.
Types of Burials at Sea
The United States Navy conducts two primary types of burials at sea: Individual Urn Burials and Committal Services with Casket Burial.
Individual Urn Burials:
• A small, white urn containing the ashes of the deceased is gently placed on the surface of the ocean, usually several miles out to sea.
• A brief prayer or speech is read, honoring the life and service of the deceased.
• A ceremonial release of a wreath or flower petals into the water accompanies the burial.
• A 21-gun salute is typically fired, if possible, to signal the end of the service.
Committal Services with Casket Burial:
• The deceased is laid to rest in a biodegradable casket or shroud.
• A small, temporary grave marker is placed on the deck of the ship or offshore platform, bearing the deceased’s name, rank, and service dates.
• A brief service, including a eulogy, prayer, or special remarks, is conducted, often including the playing of "Taps" on a trumpet.
• The body is then slowly lowered into the sea, allowing the casket to open and the ashes to be released.
The United States Navy still conducts burials at sea for eligible individuals, including active duty personnel, retirees, veterans, and reserve members. Funeral escorts, typically supplied by naval vessels or naval aircraft, are responsible for transporting the remains to the burial location.
Modernization and Expansion:
• New technologies: The Navy has introduced digital systems for tracking and storing burial data, as well as improvements in casket and urn design.
• Global expansion: Naval burial ceremonies are now performed at numerous locations worldwide, including Alaska, Hawaii, and abroad.
• Increased access: The Navy has relaxed some of the eligibility criteria for burials at sea, making this tradition more accessible to a broader range of individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can anyone be buried at sea?: The answer is yes, provided the individual meets specific criteria, including military service or eligibility as determined by the Navy’s Burial Services Office.
- Can I have a burial at sea ceremony in a particular location?: The Navy works to accommodate burial requests, but availability of escorts and ceremonies may be affected by various factors, such as ship schedules and geographic constraints.
- What if I want a specific type of burial, such as a casket burial or urn burial?: The Navy strives to honor specific requests, but options may be limited depending on the circumstances.
Conclusion
The tradition of burials at sea in the United States Navy is a testament to the respect, dignity, and sacrifice inherent in military service. Despite the evolution of burial practices over time, the core principles of respect, compassion, and unity remain steadfast. While the specific procedures and processes may vary, the solemn beauty of naval burials at sea endures, offering a final farewell to the brave men and women who have given their lives in service to their country.
