I have received a dvd of Jerry's burial at sea - April 19, 2008 - Aegean Sea
Latitude 36.04.7N, Longitude 025-29.6 E. The Captain of the USS Nashville LPD 13, a deployed destroyer, sent me a beautiful letter as follows:
The remains of your husband, LTJG Gerald M. Loevner, U.S. Navy, were committed to the sea following yoru request.
"The burial at sea ceremoney took place on the flight deck of USS NASHVILLE (LPD 13) on April 19, 2008, AT 5:00 p.m. in the Eastern Mediterrean Sea. Conforming to naval tradition, the ship was stopped, colors displayed at half-mast, and the participating officers and crew paraded in their Service Dress Blue uniforms. The afternoon was clear wtih a 79-degree temperature, moderate winds and light seas.
Under these favorable conditions, both the religious and military ceremonies were conducted with dignity and solemnity. NASHVILLE'S Executive Officer, Lieutenant Commander Brian M. Peterson was the military commander of the ceremony. A seven- person rifle squad with Chief Petty Officer Timothy F. Ashton in charge, a flag bearer, the cremains bearer, and the 20-member honor platoon were formed from the crew of the USS NASHVILLE (LPD 13).
Photographs of the ceremoney were taken and are enclosed, along with the flag presented to the military commander of the ceremoney, a cartridge from each of the three volleys of the rifle salute, and a video of the service. In addition, a navigational chart showing the locaton of the ship at the time of committal will be mailed to you the near future.
The officers and crew of USS NASHVILLE(LPD 13) are proud and honored to have had the privilege of performing this burial at sea ceremoney. Please accept my personal warm regards and sincerest sympathy for your loss.
Sincerely,
Tushar R. Tembe,
Captain, U.S. Navy"
Sunday, September 14, 2008
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