Seabees Remember a Most Honored Veteran

PORT TOWNSEND, Wash. - More than 100 Sailors, veterans and family members gathered at the Gardiner Community Cemetery in Port Townsend, Wash., to honor Navy Seabee Medal of Honor recipient Marvin G. Shields during a Veteran's Day ceremony.

The annual memorial service at Gardiner Cemetery is coordinated by the Navy Seabee Veterans of America (NSVA).

The master of ceremonies was retired Master Chief Jerry Landcastle, Northwest District commander of the veteran's organization. He began the ceremony by thanking everyone for their attendance.

"Thanks to each and every one of you for attending this ceremony and a special thanks goes to the Seabees from Construction Battalion Maintenance Unit 303 for their continuous support throughout the year," said Landcastle. "The memorial ceremony is intended to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of those who have served in our armed services and in particular the historic actions of one of our nation's heroes of the Vietnam War."

Construction Mechanic 3rd Class Marvin Shields was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 1966 by President Lyndon B. Johnson for gallantry during combat in Vietnam.

"Each year our command attends this ceremony because of our special relationship with the local chapter Seabee veterans," said Lt. Richard J. Pocholski, Construction Battalion Maintenance Unit (CBMU) 303. "This is how we honor the fallen heroes for their sacrifices to our country, and it's a little more personal because of the veterans own distinction of a Seabee."

For one Sailor the ceremony was a way to remember history and show respect.

"The memorial ceremony is how we show our gratitude to fallen soldiers, especially because we are still in time of war," said Equipment Operator 2nd Class Dustin Beach, CBMU 303. "This brings us together with local veterans and builds camaraderie amongst the Seabee community."

During the ceremony veterans presented Shield's grave with American flags, flowers and a special banner.

"Each year I attend this ceremony I am overwhelmed," said Joan Bennett, Shields' wife. "I am eternally grateful for all the Seabees who continue to support our community. In Marvin's memory it is my responsibility to express my gratitude to the Navy."