![]() 8, 2000, and was scheduled to return home Dec. The destroyer departed Norfolk for its deployment Aug. The ship was part of the USS George Washington Battle Group, and was in transit from the Red Sea to a port visit in Bahrain when the ship stopped in Aden for routine refueling. Deprived of sleep, food and shelter, they vigilantly battled to preserve a secure perimeter and restore stability to engineering systems that were vital to the ship's survival The crew conducted more than 96 hours of sustained damage control in conditions of extreme heat and stress. Skillful first aid and advanced medical treatment applied by the crew prevented additional death and eased the suffering of many others. The crew's prompt actions to isolate damaged electrical systems and contain fuel oil ruptures prevented catastrophic fires that could have engulfed the ship and cost the lives of countless men and women. In the aftermath of the explosion, the crew of USS Cole fought tirelessly to free shipmates trapped by the twisted wreckage and limit flooding that threatened to sink their ship. The resulting blast killed 17 Sailors, wounded 37 others, and tore a hole forty by sixty feet in the ship's hull. A French horn combined with two swords underscores his service with the Marine Corps as a Field Musician and reminds us of his nickname, "The Fighting Field Musician." The laurel wreath is emblematic of honor and high achievement.Īt 11:18 on the morning of October 12, 2000, as USS Cole (DDG 67) was refueling in Aden Harbor, Yemen, suicide bombers detonated an explosive-laden boat directly against the port side of the ship. The crossed navy sword and Marine Mameluke signify cooperation within and the fighting spirit of the Naval Service. The grenades also represent the traits courage, valor and honor, commemorating Sergeant Cole's fighting spirit and dedication.Ī blue reversed star, on the crest, represents the Medal of Honor posthumously awarded to Sergeant Cole for his self-sacrifice and extraordinary heroism. A broken chevron alludes to Sergeant Cole's breaking the enemy's hold, enabling his company to attain it's ultimate objective. Three hand grenades commemorate Sergeant Cole's heroic one-man grenade attach against enemy emplacements during the assault on Iwo Jima. The three tines represent submarine, and air warfare capabilities. ![]() ![]() A trident symbolizes sea prowess and Cole's modern warfare capabilities. Red, for blood and courage, denotes Sergeant Cole's valor and sacrifice. The dark blue and gold, on the shield of the Court of Arms, represent sea faring excellence and are traditionally associated with the Navy. The USS Cole was commissioned on June 8, 1996.
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