Amid all the dangers that those who serve in our country's armed forces face in war-torn areas, it is easy to forget that they are also vulnerable to the same sorts of violence that affect citizens at home, especially women. The two women we honor tonight--Seaman Anamarie Sannicolas Camacho, 20, of Panama City, Florida, and Seaman Genesia Mattril Gresham, 19, of Lithonia, Georgia--were murdered, apparently by a fellow sailor who had had a casual relationship with one of them. The Navy Times reported that he was armed as a member of the base security force, and according to WJHG News, friends said that he had threatened her in the past and had been ordered to stay away from her. The alleged shooter remains hospitalized in critical condition after turning his gun on himself.
Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and colleagues who are affected by this tragedy.
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