(October 12, 2009)

KINGSVILLE--For this Navy-aware community, it was chilling video that we broadcast on Columbus Day nine years ago, the suicide bombing of the USS Cole in Yemen.

 Seventeen American sailors died on that day, including two from the Coastal Bend. They were 26 year old Gary Swenchonis Jr. of Rockport and 22-year-old Ronchester Santiago of Kingsville

Today in Kingsville, relatives and friends gathered for a memorial tribute to Santiago.

It's a painful day for one Kingsville family. Nine years ago, they lost their loved one, but every year people come back to remember him.

Family and friends came to a Kingsville cemetery to remember sailor Ronchester Santiago. He was one of 17 sailors who died and it's still a difficult day for his father.

"It is a very sad moment like today, but at the same time it will give me some relief," said Rogelio Santiago Sr. Santiago's father.  

"I was proud to serve with him,"  said Senior Naval Officer Ernesto Garcia who served with Santiago on the USS Cole

He makes it a point to be every year at this memorial ceremony.

"It's just great to see that they have made a commitment to come out here every year to celebrate his sacrifice for his country," said Garcia. 

Garcia still can't believe what happened on the ship. He has dedicated his 21-year career to the sailors, like Santiago, who died.

"To remember him and other people who died on the Cole. I just need to serve their time still too," Garcia said. 

Garcia hopes the ten-year anniversary for the USS Cole victims will be a big celebration of the life for his fallen shipmates.

--Manuel De La Rosa, Area 3 News, mdelarosa@kiiitv.com