GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) - The men and women at the Naval Construction Battalion Center are honoring those who lost their lives while on duty.

Military members and families gathered this morning for the Bells Across America event. It’s a ceremony where the names of fallen soldiers are read, followed by the tolling of the bell, to symbolize their end of watch.

Susie Stephen lost her son Scott six years ago. His name was one of the 182 read at the ceremony.

“Every time someone brings up his name, it’s a chance to speak of him,” said Stephen. ”I’m sure every parent here felt the same way. It just keeps them alive in your heart.”

Each family now becomes part of the Navy Gold Star Program. This provides them with long-term support in getting the resources they need to handle the loss of their

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