Flags across Florida were lowered to half-staff on Friday to honor three American sailors, including a native of St. Petersburg, who lost their lives in a tragic terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola five years ago.
On December 6, 2019, a Saudi aviation student initiated a shocking act of violence at Naval Air Station Pensacola, resulting in 11 people being shot. Among the injured were two sheriff’s deputies, the first to respond, one of whom neutralized the assailant. Tragically, three young sailors lost their lives during this incident.
St. Petersburg native Mohammed Haitham was among those killed. Known affectionately as ‘Mo’ to his family and friends, Haitham was a Lakewood High School alumnus and a star in track and field. Shortly after graduating in 2018, he enlisted in the US Navy, pursuing training at the Naval Air Station. Friends remember him as a hero who bravely attempted to stop the shooter, with Szeja Thomas, a long-time friend, remarking on the significance of his brave actions.
Alongside Haitham, Joshua Watson also demonstrated remarkable courage despite sustaining multiple gunshot wounds. Watson played a crucial role in directing first responders to the shooter’s location, an act that undoubtedly saved more lives. The third victim, Naval Aircrewman Mechanical 3rd Class Cameron Walters, also paid the ultimate sacrifice during this harrowing event.
The tragedy coincided with another violent incident just days earlier at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, highlighting fears of insider threats on military bases. This attacker, part of the Saudi military, was undergoing aviation training in Pensacola, adding an international dimension to the investigation and subsequent diplomatic tension.
In response to the Pensacola attack, Governor Ron DeSantis proclaimed December 6 as Naval Air Station Pensacola Remembrance Day, ensuring the heroism and memories of Haitham, Watson, and Walters are honored every year.
The lowering of flags across Florida serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by Mohammed Haitham, Joshua Watson, and Cameron Walters. Their bravery in the face of danger exemplifies the highest qualities of service members, leaving a lasting impact on their communities and the nation.
Source: Fox13news
