Memorial Day 2005 Ceremony for USS Euryale

by Sheri Lytle

September, 2005

As we were not able to attend the ceremony taking place at our ship's plaque at the Nimitz Museum in Fredricksburg, Texas on Memorial Day, we felt it fitting to honor our crew on Eternal Patrol in our own way.

We held the ceremony at my father's graveside. As Denny and our youngest daughter, Melissa, attended to other family graves in and near town, our oldest daughter, Chawn, and I conducted the small tribute.

We took a small portable CD player with us and precisely at 10:00 a.m. quietly played the US Navy hymn, "Eternal Father, Strong to Save." Chawn led us in a simple but moving prayer for those who have gone before us and a special remembrance for those still with us. We then played, "Anchors Aweigh." We said a silent prayer and then took turns reading the names of all the known deceased who once served on Euryale. As we were alternating on names, it was my turn and I came to my father's name. Sobs overcame me and I couldn't say his name. Sweet, compassionate Chawn put her arm around me, read her grandfather's name with strength and pride and then continued with the next name on her list. We ended the ceremony with "Taps" and many, many tears.

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Chawn

Dad's Grave

Dad's Grave

I welcome hearing from each and every one of you as to how you observed your Memorial Day.

God bless and keep you all.
The Lytle Family

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