Flight 19 Memorial Ceremony December 5, 2012 On December 5, 1945, a flight of five TBM Avenger torpedo bombers took off from Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale on a routine training mission and simply disappeared. The Navy conducted one of the most intensive search and rescue missions in military history. The squadron was never found or heard from again. As many of you know, this was the beginning of the Bermuda Triangle story. Every year on December 5 th, there is a memorial ceremony honoring these lost crewmembers of the past and present members of the US military. Following are a few photos from today’s ceremony.
Invocation by Chaplain Ron Perkins
Comments from Jack Seiler – Mayor of Fort Lauderdale
Welcome from Izzy Bonilla
Color Guard Stranahan High School
Color Guard
Guest Speaker Commander Dennis Volpe USN Commander USS Taylor
Guest Speaker Commander Dennis Volpe USN
Comments Commissioner Chip LaMarca
Lt. Dave White (Ret) USN Participated in Flight 19 Search and Rescue efforts
Jim Naugle former Mayor of Fort Lauderdale His uncle was stationed at NAS Fort Lauderdale
George Lord USN (Ret) Aviation Gunner’s Mate
Tony Atwood USN (Ret) and Historian Honors Commander Jesse J. Taylor And reads the names of the Flight 19 crewmembers
Ceremonial bell is rung after each Flight 19 crewmembers’ name is read
Ceremonial Wreath
TAPS by Robert Young at the close of the ceremony
NAS Fort Lauderdale – Naval Museum The only original Navy building in Broward County
Allan F. McElhiney, President NAS Fort Lauderdale Museum The museum has been Al’s dream and purpose in life. He has worked 24/7 for many years to make his dream come true. If not for his efforts, it would not exist. We thank you Al.