If you’re in the Fort Lauderdale area this week, be sure to check out Fleet Week Port Everglades! This annual event brings four ships and hundreds of sailors, marines, and Coast Guardsmen to the area. The USS New York, USS Cole, USS Indiana (submarine), and USNS Newport are all docked at Port Everglades and open for tours. Don’t miss your chance to see these impressive vessels up close and learn more about the brave men and women who serve our country.
Remembering the USS Cole: A Story of Honor, Courage, and Commitment
On the morning of October 12, 2000, the USS Cole, a guided-missile destroyer, was refueling in the port of Aden, Yemen when two al-Qaeda terrorists approached the ship in a small boat carrying a bomb. The ensuing explosion killed 17 sailors and injured 37 others, and left a gaping hole in the ship’s hull. Despite the devastation, the crew of the USS Cole fought tirelessly to save their ship and their shipmates. The crew’s heroism, sacrifice, and bravery in the face of adversity exemplified the Navy’s core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment.i
Key Points:
On October 12, 2000, the USS Cole was attacked by two al-Qaeda terrorists while refueling in Aden, Yemen.
The attack killed 17 sailors and
The crew of the USS Cole fought tirelessly to save their ship and their shipmates.
The crew’s heroism, sacrifice, and bravery exemplified the Navy’s core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment.
The Navy subsequently enhanced global force protection training during crucial transits and implemented measures to defend against low-slow flying aircraft and small boats.
The USS Cole Awards Presented Following the Attack include Legion of Merit, Navy and Marine Corps Medal, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medals, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and Navy Unit Commendation.
Selected USS Cole Artifacts include United States Navy Flag, United States Marine Corps Flag, Mess Management Specialist T-Shirt, and Mess Deck Tray.
Conclusion
The USS Cole attack was a tragic reminder of the dangers that our sailors face every day in defense of our country. The heroism and sacrifice of the crew of the USS Cole is an inspiration to all Americans and serves as a testament to the Navy’s core values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment. Let us honor their memory by continuing to support a strong Navy and ensuring that our sailors have the training and resources they need to defend our nation.