Bus Crash Kills 3 Sailors, Injures Dozens

American Forces Press Service ^ | March 12, 2004 | Media Release

[Calpernia]

At least three sailors were killed and dozens more were injured after a bus carrying Navy people to a wreath-laying ceremony collided with a tractor-trailer today about 20 miles north of Beaufort, S.C.

The sailors – part of the precommissioning unit of the guided missile cruiser Pinckney -- were traveling from Charleston, S.C., to attend a wreath-laying ceremony at Beaufort National Cemetery, according to a news release from the Navy's U.S. Fleet Forces Command.

Two dozen sailors were treated at area hospitals, and 47 others suffered minor injuries, the release said. Names of the sailors killed in the accident are being withheld until their families are notified.

The ceremony at the Beaufort cemetery was to honor the ship's namesake, the release said. William Pinckney was an enlisted cook who earned the Navy Cross and the Purple Heart for his actions following a 1942 Japanese bombing attack on the USS Enterprise. He died in 1975, and is buried in the Beaufort cemetery.

Local law enforcement agencies are investigating the crash.

Families wishing to obtain information about their loved ones can call the Navy's Emergency Coordination Center toll free at (800) 303-8976.

[Calpernia]

At least three sailors were killed and dozens more were injured after a bus carrying Navy people to a wreath-laying ceremony collided with a tractor-trailer today about 20 miles north of Beaufort, S.C.

The sailors – part of the precommissioning unit of the guided missile cruiser Pinckney -- were traveling from Charleston, S.C., to attend a wreath-laying ceremony at Beaufort National Cemetery, according to a news release from the Navy's U.S. Fleet Forces Command.

[Ragtime Cowgirl]

Thanks, Cal.

Praying with you for our USS Pinckney Sailors and loved ones.

Other tributes and comments:

8 Navy bus crashes on way to memorial service. 4 dead - 60 injured ~ Fox News Channel  | 3/12/04

[Lakeside]

Oh, my. How terrible for their families. Praying for them that God will bring comfort.

My son is Navy and was at one time stationed in Charleston.

[JulieRNR21]

So tragic....sending prayers for the families.

[Former Fetus]

Fox is reporting 4 deaths: 3 sailors and the bus driver.

[Calpernia]

Thanks for the update. I don't see it at the Fox site yet.

I will check back when I'm back on tonight.

[cajunnavyguy]

the bus driver was a saior. i knew him from being stationed in japan with him. the news reported 3 deaths, but it was 4 total. i also knew someone who witnessed it that was part of the crew following the bus. she says 4 dead.