Friends,
This morning at approximately 2:30AM the USS Fitzgerald (DDG-62) was involved in a collision with the Philippine flagged merchant vessel ACX Crystal. The cause of the collision is unknown at this time.
It is with a heavy heart that Democrats Abroad Japan extends its condolences to the U.S. Navy community of Naval Base Yokosuka and to the families and crew members of the USS Fitzgerald (DDG-62) as they mourn the loss of seven Sailors who have have unfortunately perished in the collision. We would like to offer our deepest sympathies and support to those affected by this terrible tragedy. We would also like to commend the brave crew members of the USS Fitzgerald for their best efforts in keeping the ship afloat and returning the rest of the crew safely ashore.
Our thoughts are also with the three Sailors taken to the Yokosuka Naval Hospital and we wish them a speedy recovery. We offer praise to our Japanese allies for their assistance in the search and rescue operations and for guiding the ship safely home. If you would like to find out more about providing assistance for those affected by this tragic event, please visit the Naval Base Yokosuka Facebook page by clicking here.
Democrats Abroad Japan understands the remarkable service our men and women in uniform undertake each and every day. Today we pause to honor those fallen who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
On behalf of our community, fair winds and following seas Shipmates. Your watch is over.
In Solidarity,
Alexander C. Gonzalez
Chair, Democrats Abroad Japan
U.S. Navy Veteran