Ocean Flags At Half-Staff to Honor Marines Slain In Tennessee Terror Attack

U.S. flags at Ocean County facilities will fly at half-staff to honor the memory of the four U.S. Marines killed in the terrorist attack in Tennessee last week, the Ocean County Board of Freeholders has announced.

“We recognize the service of these Marines to our country,” Freeholder Director John C. Bartlett Jr. said. “We mourn their death here in Ocean County and we keep their families and loved ones in our prayers.”

The four U.S. Marines were shot and killed in a gun rampage in Chattanooga, Tenn., on July 16 when the gunman identified as Mohammad Youssef Abdulazeez, 24, opened fire on the Chattanooga’s Naval Reserve support center where Marines and sailors are trained for reserve duty. Three others were wounded, and one of those, a sailor, later died of his injuries. Ocean County officials moved to lower the flags in recognition of those killed in the July 16 attakc and all veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedoms enjoyed by American citizens.

“Ocean County is home to the largest veteran population in the state of New Jersey,” said Freeholder Gerry P. Little, who serves as liaison to the Ocean County Veterans Services Bureau. “We hold our veterans near to our hearts for they have made a significant difference in all of our lives. We mourn the loss of these four brave Marines and we send our condolences to the loved ones they leave behind.”

Abdulazeez was killed after the rampage.

“We have brave soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen serving around the world to protect our freedoms, and our thoughts and prayers are with all of them and their families and those who were lost in this terrorist attack,” Little said. “Our nation has eternal gratitude for their service.”