https://www.facebook.com/804766458509746/posts/853401020312956
Oak Harbor City Councilor Bryan Stucky posted this to his Facebook page on .
A community is grieving over the recent loss of two of our service members: Lt. Cmdr. Lydsay Evans, and Lt. Serena Wileman. In the day and age of social media word travels quickly. It is not uncommon to want to do something “Tangible”. Often it is something as simple as commenting on a post with something to the effect of “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family”. Certainly, there is nothing wrong with that in the slightest. All life is valued, but when it is somebody who passes away before their time, are prominent members of our community, or members of our military people are often left asking “What else can we do”? Words help, but actions go even further. As a funeral director who has walked with these families during part of their difficulty journey, here are some things they have told me that have helped them:
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Find out what the person who passed was passionate about and find a way to donate or help that organization in their name.
If there are services that are open to the public that are held here (especially in situations like these) do what you can to attend. You don’t have to say anything – indeed it can be difficult to find the words especially if you did not know the person. But just your presence can go a long way.
Remember them in the way you treat others. Tragic deaths like this can be a wake-up call that tomorrow is never promised to us. Tell a friend sorry, treat someone with kindness, make that phone call you have been meaning to make. If a situation like this helps spur you to do something positive for another in a way they are living on through your actions.
The loss for many of us is indirect: we did not know those we lost personally. But in our navy town there is a good chance we know someone who was close to them. If you interact with them, treat them with compassion. Give them a little grace as they may be struggling throughout the day.
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Our navy town feels these losses in a way that is unique. It is times like this that focus our community on a common event. It often brings us closer together as we are having a shared experience. Things are put into perspective: The little arguments, the Facebook debates, our minor problems, tend to – for a little while at least – be put in perspective. Hold onto that perspective as long as possible. Look out for your family, friends, and community of our unique island home. By remembering them through your actions, they will continue to live on.
Names of the two aviators who lost their lives during a routine training flight have been released.
