Flight 19 Memorial CeremonyDecember 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 5th, 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

Color Guard

Guest Speaker Commander Dennis Volpe USNCommander USS Taylor

Guest Speaker Commander Dennis Volpe USN

Comments Commissioner Chip LaMarca

Lt. Dave White (Ret) USNParticipated in Flight 19 Search and Rescue efforts

Jim Naugle former Mayor of Fort LauderdaleHis 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 MuseumThe 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.