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The Lost 74 Tribute

The Lost 74 Tribute

In 2020, the Lost 74 memorial stone was placed next to the shelter in the Meditation Garden to pay tribute to the 74 sailors, and more specifically the three Wisconsin sailors; James R. Cmeyla, 24, of Luxemburg; Michael A. Orlikowski, 28, Milwaukee; and Jon W. Thomas, 22, of Delavan, who died at sea June 3, 1969 aboard the USS Frank E. Evans when it collided with the HMAS Melbourne, an Australian carrier, during a training exercise.

During the ceremony, The Highground was privileged to welcome USS Frank E. Edwards survivors and the family members of James, Michael and Jon as the memorial stone was unveiled. Terri Vjere, a USS Frank E. Edwards survivor, stated “We are so pleased with the placement of this memorial.”

The Highground was honored to work with the USS Frank E. Evans Association (DD 754) and to have USS Frank E. Evans survivor, Terry Vjere, at the Park for the dedication of the stone on Memorial Day, May 31, 2021.