After receiving these photos from the USS Wasp, I had no idea we did official burials at sea. I guess I just never even thought about it. So, I looked into it a little bit more.
A casket containing the remains of Petty Officer 1st Class Raymond W. Rothfuss awaits burial at sea on the stern gate the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp. The Wasp is currently underway conducting sea trials in the Atlantic Ocean.
The naval practice of sea burials goes back as far as there as been sea warfare. For the most part, the initial stages of the sea burial aren’t unlike those on land. A Chaplain or Commanding Officer officiates the ceremony, which can be either religious or military in nature. The difference is that when these preparations have been completed and all is in readiness, attention is sounded. Everyone is brought to attention and “present arms,” at which time the reading of the committal is commenced. When the indicated word of the committal is read, the casket bearers tilt the board on which the casket is located until the casket slides along it, under the national ensign, and overboard into the sea. As it goes, the casket bearers retain the board and the national ensign on board and stand fast.
Disposition at sea is normally accomplished within 8 to 10 weeks from the time the responsible Fleet Commander-in-Chief is notified of a request.
The Commanding Officer of a ship directed to conduct an at sea disposition will, within 10 days after the committal, mail to the next of kin a personal letter giving the date and time of committal and include photographs or video tape of the ceremony, the commemorative flag and a chart showing where the burial took place.
I just thought you all would like to learn along with me! For those interested, PO1 Rothfuss served his country for more than 20 years in the United States Navy and was a survivor of the Vietnam War. He was 60 when he died. At his request, he was buried at sea.
