Burying Sailors at Sea: A Long-Standing Tradition

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Do they still bury sailors at sea?
The U.S. Navy provides burial at sea. The National Cemetery Administration can’t perform this type of committal service. For information, call the U.S. Navy Mortuary Affairs office at 866-787-0081.
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The practice of burying sailors at sea extends back to prehistoric times. It was a method for sailors to pay tribute to and properly send off their dead companions. Although the custom has changed over time, it still plays a significant role in maritime culture. We will address some frequently asked questions about sea burials in this article.

In the ocean, how many bodies are there?

The number of bodies in the ocean is difficult to calculate, but it is reasonable to assume that there are numerous. Others are the bones of sailors who were buried at sea, while other bodies are the consequence of accidents or natural calamities. Since the Civil War, the United States Navy estimates that about 50,000 sailors have been interred at sea.

Do You Need a Casket to Be Buried?

Without a casket, it is possible to be buried at sea. In actuality, it is more typical for sailors to be wrapped in a sailcloth or weighted shroud. The body is placed in the shroud on a flat board, which is then slanted to allow the body to fall off and into the water. This approach is employed because it is more environmentally friendly and because it is challenging to transport a casket on a ship.

Veterans may they be buried at sea?

Veterans can indeed be interred at sea. In actuality, the US Navy offers this service to qualified veterans. The service will be done with the same care and dignity as a typical burial, with the Navy providing a flag and a bugler to play Taps. Family members are also welcome to attend the event, according to the Navy.

In the UK, are sea burials permitted?

In the UK, marine burials are permitted. In fact, there are special rules regarding sea burials from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). According to the regulations, the body must be buried at a distance of at least three nautical miles from the coast and be enclosed in a weighted shroud or casket. The MCA further stipulates that the burial location must be noted and preserved.

Finally, it should be noted that there has been a long-standing custom to bury sailors at sea. It is a means for sailors to pay tribute to and properly send off their dead friends. Although the custom has changed over time, it still plays a significant role in maritime culture. Veterans also have the option of sea burials, which are permitted in many nations, including the UK.

FAQ
Where in the UK can you be buried at sea?

You can arrange for a burial at sea in a number of coastal sites in the UK, including off the coasts of Weymouth, Dorset, and Newhaven, East Sussex. It’s crucial to remember, though, that conducting a burial at sea is subject to a number of rules and procedures.