By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/EXW/AW)
Joshua Bryce Bruns, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea Public Affairs
SEOUL, Republic of Korea (NNS) -- Sailors from Commander,
U.S. Naval Forces Korea (CNFK) and the Republic of Korea (ROK) navy honored the
47 sailors that were lost after the sinking of the ROKS Cheonan (PCC-772)
during an annual memorial service March 25.
Cheonan, a Pohang-class corvette, was sunk after being hit
with a North Korean torpedo in the Yellow Sea March 26, 2010. Forty-six members
of the ship's crew perished in the incident, along with a ROK navy diver who
lost his life during the subsequent rescue efforts.
"These fallen sailors symbolize the incredible strength
and indomitable spirit of the Korean people, who have always stood tall in the
face of adversity," said Rear Adm. Lisa Franchetti, commander of U.S.
Naval Forces Korea. "These sailors stood the watch so their fellow
citizens could live in peace and prosperity."
In the tradition of Korean culture, Franchetti participated
in a flower-laying and incense ceremony with other distinguished guests
including ROK navy Rear Adm. Choi Myung-han, Combined Forces Command C1.
"Koreans were left in despair after the attack, but
these fallen sailors will never be forgotten," said Choi. "Because of
their sacrifice, the U.S.-ROK alliance has never been stronger."
Sailors from the U.S. and ROK Navy approached the memorial
in small groups, saluting and paying their respects to the Cheonan crew.
"These sailors are forever a reminder of the enduring
cost of freedom," said Franchetti. "The legacy of these sailors will
live on in all those who serve the Republic of Korea, and for this great
alliance."
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