The Royal Bahamas Defence Force commemorated the 45th anniversary of the HMBS FLAMINGO tragedy with a solemn memorial service at Coral Harbour Base today.
The ceremony began with a wreath-laying at the Cenotaph in the Garden of Remembrance, honoring the four marines who made the ultimate sacrifice on May 10, 1980, when their vessel was attacked and sunk in Bahamian waters.
Minister of National Security, the Honourable Wayne Munroe, K.C., delivered a poignant address, paying tribute to the fallen servicemen who “exemplified the highest ideals of service and sacrifice.” The Minister emphasized that “their courage continues to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all Bahamians in the face of adversity.”
Commodore Floyd Moxey, Commander of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, joined the Minister and other distinguished guests in laying wreaths at the HMBS Flamingo Memorial Park Monument. Family members of the four fallen marines—Fenrick Sturrup, Austin Smith, David Tucker, and Edward Williams—were present alongside survivors of the incident, creating a powerful reminder of both loss and resilience.
In a particularly moving moment, families and comrades of the fallen placed personal tributes at the Memorial Park, honoring not only the FLAMINGO crew but all marines who have given their lives in service to The Bahamas.
The ceremony concluded with a traditional wreath-laying in the waters of Coral Harbour, symbolizing eternal remembrance for those lost at sea.
The HMBS FLAMINGO incident remains one of the most significant moments in the history of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, marking both tragedy and the commitment to defending Bahamian sovereignty.
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