Special plaque created for the Conception memorial site
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - A special memorial ceremony remembered those lost in the worst maritime tragedy in modern California history.
One year ago, the Conception dive boat went down in flames off Santa Cruz Island.
34 on board died.
The Captain and four crew members survived.
The official National Transportation Safety Board report on the cause and results of an operational investigation will be released next month.
"It would turn out to be the most tragic call of our careers," said Ryan Kelly with the Santa Barbara Harbor Patrol. He and a partner were the first to leave the harbor in an urgent response with the U.S. Coast Guard and boaters in the area.
A virtual ceremony took place at dawn Wednesday. It was combined with an in person gathering of those close to the victims.
They, along with the boating community, were given words of comfort.
"Cherish the memories that you have of your loved ones. Those are yours to keep forever," said Suzanne Grimmesey with the Santa Barbara County Behavior Wellness Department.
Santa Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown said, "it's a somber day but it is also a day where we reconnect with the families and recognize how precious these 34 people were."
At the end of the Santa Barbara breakwater, lasting memories of those who were lost have been displayed. They included pictures, messages and personal belongings.
Just after 7 a.m. a special plaque on a large rock was unveiled with the names of all who died on board the Conception.
James and Erin Adamic came from Sacramento. They lost three family members. Looking at the memorial James said, "it also us let me know they won't be forgotten. That's important."
Erin said, "everyone in your life is precious and you need to cherish them and honor them. You know they could be gone in an instant. Three of them could be gone in an instant."
A ship's bell was rung 34 times at the end of the ceremony.
Sheriff Bill Brown recalled what was written on a special flag at the memorial that is hoisted when someone is in the water.
"Fare winds and following seas we will remember you on every dive. And so it is with that their spirits live on," he said.
