CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. –
The city of Chattanooga, Tenn. held a memorial service for the victims of the July 16, 2015, Chattanooga shooting at the Wreath of Honor Fallen Five Memorial July 16, 2025.
“The military members knew they were not left to themselves to mourn and grieve and heal,” said Cmdr. (Ret) Timothy White, the former commanding officer of Navy Operational Support Center Chattanooga. “The people of Chattanooga and surrounding areas very much rallied around the family and friends of the fallen five heroes. I think the unity we witnessed and experienced then is what changed Chattanooga permanently. This gave me hope and strength in the days following the attack.”
The service members honored in the ceremony consisted of U.S. Marine Gunnery Sgt. Thomas J. Sullivan; Staff Sgt. David A. Wyatt; Sgt. Carson A. Holmquist, Navy Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Randall S. Smith and Lance Cpl. Squire K. Wells.
“While their roots weren't deep, their legacy is permanent,” said Wamp. “To some extent it lives in all of us who serve the community.”
The service members prioritized the safety of one another and of the local community. During the shooting, service members alerted each other and the civilians at a nearby park away from the danger.
Speakers for the event included Tim Kelly, the mayor of the city of Chattanooga, Weston Wamp, the mayor of Hamilton County, U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. Kevin Jarrard, commanding general, 4th Marine Division, U.S. Navy Cmdr. (Ret) Timothy White, and the Chattanooga Area Veterans Council.
“It's been 10 years and as far as I'm concerned we will memorialize this day forever in Chattanooga, said Kelly. “Those heroes and their families will live in our hearts forever.”
During the ceremony, Marines and Sailors honored the fallen five by laying wreaths, rendering salutes and paying respects to their families.
“We don't bear the sword in vain. It is our duty to be ever vigilant, ever prepared, so we may vanquish evil wherever it is found,” said Jarrad. “My words often fail to adequately communicate the depth of gratitude I feel in my heart, as we consider those who are no longer with us.”