The US Navy has chosen an American Shipyard to build a

new "state-of- the-art research vessel" for the

Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego.

Dakota Creek industries, Inc. in Anacortes, Washington will be

building the AGOR28, a "new ocean class research vessel."

The new "Seagoing Laboratory" will launch in 2015

and be "Homeported in Point Loma, San Diego."

The new vessel will be owned by ONR, the Office of Naval Research,

for the Navy and operated by Scripps under a "Charter Party Agreement,"

serving both the Navy and National Oceanographic research.

Scripps Oceanography News: Navy Selects Shipyard

Navy Selects Shipyard

February 29, 2012

Drones Being Used For Non Military Reasons

Yet another helpful invention for our country's safety

is coming from our Military.

While it is true, we will need to keep a close eye on this newest

military instrument that can help our law enforcement agencies,

it has many potential benefits that cannot be denied.

There have also been concerns about privacy and ethics issues.

This weapon which saved the lives of our service members

overseas since it was developed, can now be used to do

the same in the private sector by our local police.

Not only can it be used to hunt down the bad guys,

it could also be used to find lost children, elders or pets,

or even persons who may be lost at sea.

Please see this You tube video for how it works:

Drones Roam Skies of US Cities

Surveillance Drones Coming To a Police Department Near You

February 26, 2012

Are We Really Out of the Space Race?

By the looks of the X-37B, maybe not.

This new unmanned space plane, first boosted into space

on an Atlas 5 rocket in 2010, is similar to,

but a lot smaller than, the old NASA shuttles.

There now have been several versions of

The space plane built by Boeing that

have orbited the earth for over 200 days.

So, if this is the future of our Space Exploration Program,

it is looking good so far.

Secretive Air Force Space Plane Nears Orbital Record

Mystery Surrounds Air Force's Secretive X-37B

February 23, 2012

Sad to Say, My Navy is the Bad Guy Here

Animal lovers around the world have been telling our Navy

and the news media for years, that our newest sonar equipment

is the main reason ocean mammals are dying, one way or another,

for what has been called strange or unknown reasons.

Well, the causes of these deaths are not unknown anymore.

It is simple, just look at the number of Martine animals that are

beaching themselves everywhere.

Then, back up to the point where they were not doing this.

When you do, you find the cause,

there has been a change  in the places where they live,

And there is your reason.

The U.S. Navy is invading their ocean homes.

Navy Training Blasts Marine Mammals With Harmful Sonar

February 20, 2012

We Know Who's Really In Charge

Although this story is not an easy read, it is none the less very

important because every Republican hopeful wishes to have you

believe that this President is out of touch with not only

our military, but also with world Issues.

Actually, since taking office, this young President has had to deal

with more critical world issues than many of his predecessors

and the Navy Seals have been involved with many of them.

The facts are, that this President is in charge and has been since day one.

So you see we all really know what the truth is about his capabilities

and The Navy Seals do too.

Navy Seals: Obama's Secret Army

February 17, 2012

A Real Hero

Paul Phillips, a current resident of Lake County, Florida,

was a gunner on a B-17 in WWII, who also fought in Korea

and Viet Nam and  is a true hero.

Phillips who survived ground fire, air combat and becoming a prisoner of war,

says that his fond memories of the plane are the reason that he always goes

to see the wings of freedom tour when it comes to the Leesburg Airport.

We are lucky to have him as a neighbor here in Lake County.

God Bless all of the Paul Phillips' of our country and the world.

Aloft On the Wings of War

February 14, 2012

Question?

How do we plan to place a huge ship within enemy waters

in the strait of hormuz and keep this ship from

becoming a target of this enemy?

The USS Ponce LPD-15, a really old ship that was

about to become a decommissioned vessel, will now

instead become the USS Ponce massive floating base.

Iran is running around their waters in kamikaze gun boats and making

larger missiles, while at the same time, studying our best drone warfare.

What is to stop a misguided missile weapon from hitting this old ship,

by accident of course?

US vs. Iran Coming This May

February 11, 2012

You're Going to Spend How Much Mr. Romney?

Mitt Romney, John Border and the Republican Party keep

jumping all over President Obama for being such a big spender,

yet out on the campaign trail, every time that Romney speaks

in a state with ship building capabilities, he tells us

that our Navy is the smallest it has been since 1917,

an incorrect statement by the way,

and as commander in chief, he would build 15 ships a year.

But, how can this be done without a huge spending spree

in the billions of dollars Mr. Romney?

So how many of our tax dollars will you really be spending if elected?

Defense Budget Limits Reach of a Campaign Promise

February 8, 2012

Our Navy is Staying on the Green Track

Our buying biofuels from Australia at first sounded cold

to our American companies, however, two points then came to mind.

First, would I want to keep buying dirty fuel from proven unfriendly

countries, or buy clean fuel from proven friendly ones?

Second, this country is far behind other countries as far as having

companies that perfect and pump out alternative fuels, or at least

enough fuels to do what our military needs for their future.

But, we are still not doing nearly enough in the field of

alternative fuels and vehicles for this country's future.

A point in fact, aren't this country and its elected politicians,

pretty much bought and paid for by the oil and gas industries?

U.S. Navy Plans 'Great Green' Biofuels Fleet

February 5, 2012

We Need to Do Our Own Upgrades

Early last month, Engineers from the Naval Warfare Center

in Panama City, Florida began installing a new type of

minehunting sonar upgrade on the USS Guardian.

The work is due to be finished by April and will include seven other ships.

however, it is not clear why these installations are being done in Japan

and not in our own American Shipyards.

U.S. Navy Minehunting Fleets Being Upgraded

USS Guardian

February 2, 2012

Floating Commando Base

At first, this appeared, in this age of super missiles,

to be yet another complete waste of taxpayer money.

However, power hungry countries like North Korea and

Iran are using this type of speed boats, so why not a movable

floating base of operation for our own speed crafts?

This base would also be used as a launching point for Navy Seal

missions, as well as stealth technology and drone crafts.

Navy Wants Commando 'Mothership' In Middle East

Navy Converting Ship Into Floating Commando Base

January 30, 2012

Navy Ships To Be Built By Americans

My reason for posting this story is twofold, first the Navy

is using American shipbuilders to build and repair them

and second, our shipbuilders are building a new class of Carrier,

the Ford class, at the Newport News, Virginia location.

Hopefully, this new class will also be equipped as drone ships.

The Navy also reported that on Sunday the USS Abraham Lincoln passed

through the strait of Hormuz and into the Gulf "without incident"

only one day after Iran had threatened to "take action" if this occurred.

U.S. Shipbuilder Welcomes Navy Decision On Carriers

January 27, 2012

Will You Get Involved For a Vet?

Although this story was written some time ago,

it was just recently found again.

This is so important that, I wanted to share it with you.

Just in case you thought that one person cannot make a difference,

here's just another example of why we can.

A man here in Central Florida was determined to help so,

he just went out and did it, then got the snowball rolling.

all we need to do is just step up to the plate

and hit one out of the park for a Vet in need.

Won't you care enough to help, to give, to share?

Contact Gary Kadow at S.O.S.: Save Our Soldiers

Call Gary at: 352 430-0567

or email him at: gkadow@aol.com

Vets In Need? Charity Won't Take It Sitting Down

January 24, 2012

Our U.S. Navy is Using Dolphins to Find Mines

Iran is threatening to close the Strait of Hormuz, so the U.S. Navy has

called up a stealth hunter, the problem is, it did not volunteer for duty.

The Navy claims that the trained Dolphins only locate the mines,

destroying them is left up to the Navy divers.

The use of these wild animals in a war arena, has many upset and

lobbyists have complained about their safety, but during war time,

no one seems to want to second guess the military.

The protests have resulted in a petition being sent to the Defense Department

fearing that dolphins may be killed by an act of war.

Both sides have valid points and the battle lines have been drawn.

The only ones who aren't speaking up, are the dolphins.

Navy Depending on Dolphins to Keep Strait of Hormuz Open

January 21, 2012

A Hollywood Style Rescue

Iran's foreign ministry welcomed the U.S. Navy's rescue of 13 of

their fishermen held hostage by Somali pirates in the Arabian Sea,

calling it a humanitarian act.

" We consider the actions of the U.S. forces in saving the lives of the Iranian

seamen to be a humanitarian and positive act and we welcome such behavior."

As I have said in earlier blog posts, the Iranian people are our friends.

One News report from a "hard-line" source called the rescue a "stunt"

to justify the navy's presence in the Persian Gulf.

If the elite revolutionary guard navy of Iran was so worried about our

Navy saving the lives of their fishermen, why didn't they go get them days ago?

Is it because maybe this elite group lacks the "know-how?'

Our Navy is equipped to teach and train for rescues at sea, if anyone is interested?

Iran Has Divided View of U.S. Navy Rescue

January 18, 2012

Old Thinking is Dangerous

Representative McKeon needs to be replaced now with a

modern thinking chairman of the armed services committee.

We should never again fight a world war, a Korean war

or a Viet Nam conflict, which is why this story got it wrong.

With the fire power under the seas and the drone power in the air,

that we now have, this country would not need ever again put

a single solider at risk to any enemy.

It took our military between 14 and 20 days to cross an ocean

during the Korean and Viet Nam conflicts, with hundreds

of ships and thousands of soldiers at risk from the enemy.

now we can cross it in hours with unmanned aircraft,

or be there with unmanned ships.

History Repeats Itself

Flight of the Drones

US Strategy Boosts Navy Subs, Programs

January 15, 2012

Welcome to Florida Wounded Warriors

In two parts of the sunshine state this week, several groups

of wounded warriors are not only enjoying the warm Florida sun,

but also having the chance to meet and share their experiences,

exchange ideas and swap stories with fellow wounded veterans.

One group is playing softball in the Central Florida area for several days,

while the other is swimming with Dolphins down in the Keys.

Anyway you look at this, it is all good.

lets help them have some fun and heal their hearts, minds and souls.

So we say, welcome home and welcome to Florida fellow warriors.

Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team

Wounded Warriors Swim With The Dolphins

January 11, 2012

Sounds Like a Fair Fight to Me!

One United States Nuclear Submarine against three Chinese

Aircraft Carriers, no contest.

The idea of President Obama streamlining our miltary,

while the Communist countries are doing a massive build up

of their military is really a great idea.

They can fire their missiles, float new ships and run gun boats,

while we push buttons from our stealth built submarines.

I like it!

US Strategy Boosts Navy Subs, Programs

January 8, 2012

Lake County Remembers Military Veterans

59 Veterans and widows of fallen soldiers who are residents

of Waterman Cove, an assisted living facility in Tavares,

were honored recently by the Cornerstone Hospice.

The Hospice also has training and certification programs

to help volunteers become more involved,

in helping area veterans.

If you would like to help or just learn more,

you can contact Bettie LoCicero at: 352 742-6827

Never Too Late

January 5, 2012

America Must Follow the Lead of the Navy

The US Navy has done a great job with its Green Energy programs,

but now it is time for us all to take bigger steps.

What we used to call the middle class in this Country,

is now either the unemployed or homeless class.

This country is broke and our people are hurting.

We all, the Government, both Federal and State,

the Politicians, both the Democrats and Republicans and

all of our Military Branches, must respond to this situation.

We need to come together again, just like we did right after WW-2.

An example would be in Converting waste into electricity.

Our American Utilities are WW-2 outdated.

Every month, the average American throws away over 33 pounds of food.

Right now, we are putting most of this waste into the ground,

we call it landfills.

No wonder we are running out of land.

By updating our landfills and incinerators to state of the art

power plants, we can employ many of those currently out of work

and many of our companies will be making money as well.

January 2, 2012

A New Year, a Healthy New Start

If you have served your country and now find that you need help,

the VA wants to hear from you, at least the one in the Orlando area does.

If like me, you had no idea about what to do,

or where to go to learn more about this, there is help.

The VA wants all service persons to get onto their computers

as soon as possible after their tour of duty, because you never

know when or if, you might be in need of assistance.

Many people from my time of service lost out on important help because of

lack of information about the various Veterans help groups:

Get Enrolled For VA Health Care

There is also a Veterans Newsletter available

in both English and Spanish:

Veterans Health Matters

December 30, 2011

US Navy Keeps Moving Away From the Old Ways

True to their word, the US Navy has begun using GREENS,

a ground renewable Expeditionary Energy System.

This 300 watt portable Hybrid battery generator powered

 by the sun, is intended for use by troops in remote locations.

This helps not only the Navy, but also the Marines to stay

powered up while they are out in the field of operations.

Future Is Bright for ONR's Lightweight Sun Powered Generator

December 27, 2011

We Need to Help Each Other

The United States and Canadian military still use crude oil,

so both countries might want to think about working together.

Maybe they should build a refinery at our borders,

or on either the east or west coasts?

Then they could pipe this oil to the new refinery and

ship it and then truck it to points south?

Canada Defiant After US Oil Pipeline Rebuff

December 24, 2011

My Christmas Wish

My wish for this Christmas is really very simple, I wish that all

of the brave men and women in any service, in every country

all over the world could be home with those that they love.

As a show of support and respect for those who give so much that we may be free,

the next time that you pass someone in uniform, please thank them.

We owe them everything.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you all.

December 21, 2011

Our Military Helps the Law

According to a recent story in the Los Angeles Times,

"Predator Drones are being used in domestic law enforcement case

and are raising concerns that the aircraft are being deployed beyond

the missions that Congress originally authorized them for."

So, what?

How many things from our space program are now being used,

for the betterment of the private sector?

The Brossart family in North Dakota, like some others in this country,

stole from their neighbors.

This family showed law enforcement that they could and would

kill at any time that they wished to, so why should the police

go into a known hostile situation, when the use of our

military could get the situation under control,

without the loss of life on either side?

Even if this family did not steal, they had no right to pull guns on the police.

An unarmed Predator drone spy plane helped the police make the arrest.

You say, "what's next?"

I say, "whatever it takes to stop crime in this country."

Police Employ Predator Drone Spy Planes

December 18, 2011

Drones and Satellites and their potential security problems

Are satellite images exposing our secrets?

Did we lose one of our most secret drones to Iran?

Is Google risking the security of our country with its absolutely

nothing is "off limits policy" on its web sites?

Much of the news lately seems to be saying that too much freedom of the press

with the Search engines combined with the loss of a secret drone,

could all be putting the military security of our country at risk.

While there is not much that the government can do to handcuff Google,

the loss of one of our drones to a country who would relish the chance

to learn every single military secret that they can get their hands on,

is unnerving.

Could it be possible for our government to find companies like Google

and others who put our security at risk, guilty of war crimes or treason?

Where do we draw the line on this?

If Google were a single person, they would probably have already been put on trial.

American lives are being put at risk by the policies of these companies.

And how can we ever protect our military secrets, when our drones can

apparently be captured and then studied by hostile countries?

National security in America has never been so at risk as it is right now

and the solutions may not be so easy to find.

We need to get back to the basics in our patriotism in this country,

like it was when I was in service back in the sixties,

back then, we put country first.

US May Have Lost Its Most Advanced Drone

Are These Satellite Images Exposing Americas Secrets

December 14, 2011

Our Navy Keeps On Looking Forward

Here is just one more reason to be proud of our military right now.

The Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus and the Department of Agriculture

Secretary Tom Vilsack, have recently announced the signing of a contract

for the single biggest purchase in Government history,

of 450,000 gallons of advanced drop-in biofuel.

Good news for us, the fuel, which is made from a blend of used cooking oil

and algae, costs less now than it did only two years ago,

as green energy and demand make prices continue to drop.

This latest contract, is just one of the many ways that the Navy is using

to stay on track for being at 50% renewable or green energy by 2020.

Navy Secretary and USDA Secretary Announce Largest Government Purchase of Biofuel

December 11, 2011

The Saddest Stories That I Have Ever Read

At this normally happy time of the year, when people are enjoying the Holidays

and spending time with their families, the pain that has been brought to

those affected by this terrible news, just goes beyond any words.

There just has to be some more dignified, respectful, peaceful ending for

these service members who gave their lives for their country.

If you, like me, are incensed after learning about this,

for God's sake, for the sakes of these service members

and for the sakes of the loved ones that they left behind,

tell your elected officials in your state, city or local area, right now, today,

that this is the most unacceptable behavior in the history of our military.

This shameful, unbelievable treatment of all of these brave souls,

should never have happened, not in my America.

You who ordered this in Washington, must and will,

bear the scars from this act forever.

Remains of War Dead Dumped

Air Force Dumped Thousands of Ashes

Air Force Dumped Thousands of Cremated Remains

Air Force Dumped More Than acknowledged

December 8, 2011

What a Great Video For the Holiday Season

First saw this on Good Morning America

and just had to go look it up.

The song is from my favorite Christmas movie,  Love Actually,

which in case you haven't seen it, is very funny.

So here they are, with their hilarious Holiday Greeting,

the Crew of the HMS Ocean, who will be home

 with their loved ones for this Christmas.

God Bless and God Speed.

"Fair winds and following Seas."

All I Want For Christmas - HMS Ocean

Ocean Crew Film Alternative

December 5, 2011

Hard to Believe This Could Happen in My Navy

Keeping Drugs out of the work place is always an important job

for any employer, but in the case of the US Navy, consider the thought

that something the size of an Aircraft Carrier is running amuck on the

high Seas, with sailors on board, or in command, who may be high on drugs

and it takes on a whole new perspective.

An even worse case scenario would be a Submarine deep under Sea, or

even just out to sea, with shipmates who are high while on the job.

This kind of behavior in an American Military service is completely unacceptable.

The Navy has not only the right, but more importantly, the moral obligation

to get these idiots out of our service.

Our military must Always be given respect, both here and overseas,

but that is pretty hard to do if they are stoned while on Duty.

Navy Discharging 64 Sailors for Use of Drugs

December 2, 2011

New Fuel For Navy Is High Tec Trash

US Marines in Hawaii, in co-operation with the Office of Naval Research,

or ONR, are testing a new type of fuel called MAGS,

or Micro Auto Gasification System, that is both

environmentally friendly and fuel efficient.

They will continue to test MAGS until next March,

This fuel is a result of a controlled decomposition process that

converts energy from biomass by baking the trash and

recovering a high portion of combustible gas byproduct.

This new fuel testing program is just another example of how the

Navy plans to reach an alternative fuel level of 50% by 2020.

Marines Test New Energy Efficient Weapon

ONR

November 30, 2011

Message for the Troops is Green

The new message for today's Navy is to be Mean, Lean and Green.

Rear Admiral Phil Cullom is encouraging all navy personnel

to take a look at their new Facebook page and video podcast for

some ideas on making energy wise choices during the Holiday season.

Now all of the other services need to get on board this Energy Saving Train

and send out this same message to their members.

When it comes to saving energy, everyone should be on board this train.

Sailors Encouraged to Conserve Energy

Navy Task Force Energy Facebook Page

November 27, 2011

The Navy's Hybrid Electric Ships

I like all of this new thinking from the Navy, except for the

idea of anything nuclear being in the seas or in the air.

America needs to end her dependence on other countries for any

kind of fuel, but especially that being used for our Military.

The goal of the SECNAV Mabus is to have the Navy's fuel consumption

of fossil fuels reduced by 50% by 2015 and this new biofuel

being used is an algae product and a good beginning.

The name for this new alternative energy Fleet for the Navy

is the "Great Green Fleet."

This new trend makes us look good to the rest of the world and

shows that America is still an innovative world leader.

A non fossil fuel military is exactly what the whole world needs to

be doing in a joint Global effort, if we are ever going to clean up

our environment and get weaned off of non renewable energy forever.

US Navy Powers Destroyer with Biofuel

November 24, 2011

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone

Now back to our regular channel

Thanks to the complete failure of the "Super Committee" to do its job,

the Navy may now be forced to cut the budget of the Blue Angels,

who have so proudly represented the men and women of my navy

and the Marines for over 60 years.

It seems like an odd place to cut, when they only get about $37 million

of the Pentagon's massive $926 Billion annual budget.

Still, if they are to be eliminated, then it would only be fair to do the

exact same thing with the Thunderbirds and the Golden Knights.

You cannot favor one of your children over the other.

It seems a shame that the only thing left of my Navy may in the future,

 only be War Ships, War Weapons and War Machines.

Blue Angels Fly into an Age of Budget Woes

November 21, 2011

Add Another Name to the List

This week in Tampa, another severely wounded soldier was given a new home.

This time it was Army Sgt. Joel Tavera, who for the past four years has

endured over 75 surgeries, yet still remains positive through it all.

'Building Homes for Heroes' is just one of so many organizations

now dedicated to giving back to our returning wounded.

Now I only have one question, how many other returning

wounded veterans can we help like this one?

There are thousands more whose stories must also be told.

Wounded Soldier Gets New Home in Tampa

Building Homes for Heroes

November 18, 2011

It's the very least we can do

Seems Like An Almost Fair Trade to Me, a House For 2 Legs.

To fully appreciate the dry humor of this remark,

You would have to go back to the 1960's to Understand what

it was like for my whole generation coming home from Viet Nam

and the often cold, sometimes hostile, welcome that we all got,

But, today it's a new generation and the welcoming home committees

are now giving our wounded warriors the show of respect that

every single military veteran has always deserved.

For Army Sgt. Puertas, it is a new home, for others it may only be a smile

and a thank you, but it's a change we can all learn to love.

The next time you meet a wounded veteran and sometimes it is not easy,

to recognize them because not all wounds are physical, please,

offer them the kind of thanks they deserve for a job well done.

Orlando Home For Wounded Veteran

Homes For Our Troops

November 15, 2011

Say It Proudly, "Made in America"

Once again the U.S. Navy has done the right thing,

and has given a Defense Contract to the American Company,

American Systems of Chantilly, Virginia worth up to $26 Million.

If like me, you have been disgusted with the recent trend

by our Country in giving huge contracts to outsiders,

this gives us all a reason for renewed hope and pride.

We all need to let the people that we pay to do a job for us

in Washington know that we demand that this be

the norm, instead of the exception, when it comes

to making or building products for America.

Let your local elected person in office know how you feel,

by phone or email, just send them this message:

Let's bring the work and the dollars back to America,

because "Frankly Scarlet" we need the jobs and

the money a whole lot more than they do!

American Systems Awarded Navy Contract

November 12, 2011

The Folds Of Honor

One of the many ways to thank those who have made the ultimate sacrifice

for their country, is by making sure that their children can

and will be able to go to college.

An organization called "Folds of Honor", started by Pilot Major Dan Rooney,

who witnessed a family's grief for their returning solider years ago

and then made it his mission to see that the children of

these fallen soldiers never have to be "left behind."

At a recent golf Tournament, the young son of Marine Sgt. Michael Bock,

who was killed in Afghanistan in 2010 and was the first Florida soldier

to receive a silver star since the invasion began in 2001,

was awarded a full scholarship.

if you wish to help by having a Golf event,

please call Mike Langley of Leesburg at: 352 787-3580

Folds of Honor Gives Full Scholarship to Son of Marine

Folds of Honor

November 9, 2011

Remembering those who gave all on Veterans Day

As Veterans Day approaches on Friday, it is time to say thank you

once again, to all of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for

God and Country, our Military Veterans.

From me and millions of Americans, to all of you, those who came home,

those who did not and those who came back wounded,

thank you, we owe you more than we can ever repay.

The groups below are two of the many who are devoted to our Veterans:

A group of Wounded Veterans who refuse to accept any limitations in their lives:

The Wounded Warriors Ride

An organization that offers care for wounded Veterans and their families:

Hope For the Warriors

November 5, 2011

An Insult To Our Brave War Veterans

Two time Iraq war veteran, 24 year old Scott Olsen,

who protected our right to the first amendment,

by serving two tours in Iraq, in 2006 and 2007,

was critically injured by the Oakland Police while

legally demonstrating in support of what he went to war for.

We all have the Freedom to peacefully protest for these rights

and should not need to fear local Police while doing so.

Occupy Oakland

Iraq Vet Seriously Hurt In Oakland Protests

November 2, 2011

Thank You For Your Dedication to Us

Can you remember the last time you saw a first Lady of this,

or any other Country, doing what Michelle Obama is doing here?

I cannot.

The project called, "Sears Heroes at Home " is painting

a home here for Sgt. Johnny Agbi , Jr.

Mrs. Obama and Dr. Jill Biden have now set the bar very high

for future White House women.

So many in the past, have only been  allowed to be involved with

"women's work," like decorating or entertaining foreign dignitaries

while they were in the White House.

Now, This pair of strong, vibrant women, who are not to be denied,

are using their position to bring attention to a situation in America,

that deserves everybody's attention:

the living conditions for so many of our Military Veterans.

Ladies, we the Veterans of this country proudly salute you both.

Joining Forces to Rebuild 1,000 Homes for Veterans

October 30, 2011

It's All Good, It's Made in America!

The U.S. Navy's newest Submarine, a Virginia-Class Attack Submarine

was commissioned yesterday at a ceremony in Norfolk, Va.

The USS California will be commanded by Clinton, Connecticut

Native, Commander Dana Nelson.

Groton based Electric Boat, Mare Island, California and

Newport News Shipbuilding in Virginia, should all

take pride in this newest U.S. built Submarine,

that is made in America and will be home ported at

the Naval Base New London in Groton, Connecticut.

Connecticut Native Takes Helm of Navy's Newest Nuclear Submarine

October 27, 2011

J.R. Martinez

Heroes come in many sizes and shapes, but severely wounded soldiers

don't normally become contestants or stars on popular TV shows.

J.R. Martinez has broke all of the usual molds.

This Army Iraq War veteran has shown the rest of us what true courage,

selflessness and commitment truly are.

J.R. has been through hell and back, but just keeps on smiling,

showing that besides being a great motivational speaker,

he has just a few other talents like his great moves on

Dancing with the Stars,

and his dramatic skills on all my children.

J.R. Martinez is a winner!

If there was ever a case for self-pity, he could have been one,

but J.R. refuses to feel sorry for himself and has dedicated

his life to helping others.

Yes, this man is a real hero for so many reasons.

A great YouTube about his life is here:

IAVA Honors J.R. Martinez

October 24, 2011

Serving Your Country Does Not Guarantee VA Health Benefits Later

It seems that when it comes to Medical Care, the new VA qualifications

and restrictions gives some Veterans all and others none.

Depending on when you served and your current income level,

the VA can and does deny many Veterans who have served

during our wars or conflicts, Medical Health benefits.

The Government run VA health centers have very strict rules

now, for who does and does not get care.

The lines seemed blurred to me and many veterans are left with no way

to get the medical help that they need and have few other options.

US Navy Veteran Says He's Gotten "Very Little" From VA

October 21, 2011

Watching Our Backs in the Gulf

My opinion of what to do about the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps

is to congratulate the British Warship HMSA Iron Duke (F234),

for their recent heads up response to the speedboat that made

a threatening move on their ship.

Then it should be about time for our Blue Angels to do some flybys

while escorting our Navy P-3 Orion surveillance planes on their

routine patrols over the Persian Gulf.

Top Gun comes to mind!

Shocking Gulf Firefight Caught On Tape

US Shouldn't Ignore Iran's Speedboat Threat

October 18, 2011

Dear Fellow Veterans

If you are having trouble finding long lost buddies,

this could be a good place to start looking for them.

Some of us old salts still reminiscing about what we remember

as the "good ol' days", should give this web site

a "look see" to help us find an old war buddy.

To quote them, this group is:

"Helping United States military veterans reconnect,

Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard,

connecting people and reuniting thousands of old friends."

Vet Friends

October 15, 2011

Happy Birthday to you

Calm winds and following seas, a happy 236th birthday to the US Navy:

Navy Marks 236th Birthday

Semper Fidelis, a happy 236th birthday to the US Marines Corps:

Marine to Run 236 Miles

Be all that you can be, a happy 236th birthday to the US Army:

The 236th United States Army Birthday

Semper Paratus, a Happy 221st Birthday to the US Coast Guard:

Happy Birthday to the US Coast Guard

October 12, 2011

This is a 2 Part Commentary on Drone Warfare

Part One - The Computer Virus Infection

As one of many strong advocates of the ideology of,

if we must go to war, go with Drone Warfare,

this story is unbelievable to say the least.

It looks to me from reading the reports, that this is just a common malware.

If our government cannot control computer virus software,

how can the normal user ever hope to?

How can they justify the use of Drones, if they cannot know for sure,

if the Drone might boomerang on them?

In 2009, insurgents in Iraq were able to capture video from

the Drones using a piece of cheap software.

Computer Virus Reportedly Hits US Drones

Part Two - The CIA Drones

Our government will not officially acknowledge that Drones

are carrying out Airstrikes in Pakistan, Yemen and other countries.

I have some thoughts on this......

It is no secret that the countries complaining about our air strikes,

have been contributing to a systematic assault on our troops,

Beginning with Bush 1 and continuing through until today.

If the people of these countries wish for us to stop hunting killers ,

then they need to stop hiding and protecting them.

If you hide or help these monsters, you are also our enemy.

In the end, even you will benefit by the removal of these killers,

before they turn on you, if they have not done so already.

Are Drones Carrying Out Airstrikes?

October 9, 2011

Our Veterans Believe the Wars Were Not Worth Fighting

As the tenth year of fighting these two wars is being observed,

many in this country think that the costs were just too high.

The cost in lives for these two wars is over 6,000 and still counting

and the cost in dollars is at one trillion.

However, something that is never talked about is this,

that with every conflict, (we have not been in a war since 1945)

before the conflict is ended, we turn the land

and the people over to the enemy.

then we send millions more into this country, so that they can build

inferior products to sell to us for less than our American companies

are able to make and sell them for.

In a real war, both sides fight until one side wins, the fight is to win,

not to give up and walk away at the end.

One-in-Three Vets Say Wars Were Not Worth It

Veterans Believe Iraq and Afghan Wars Not Worth Fighting

October 6, 2011

We Are Your Veterans

Found this great story in my local paper,

the Daily Commercial last week.

We do not have to be in uniform or on active duty to be

involved in doing what is right for our country.

At a recent luncheon in Eustis, Florida, Am Vets Post 2011

gave a check to members of the Veterans organization,

Resource and Recovery for the homeless .

The money was raised for the group over the Labor Day weekend.

Am Vets Org

October 3, 2011

Long Overdue Respect For Our Military

I Did not know that the Senate passed a resolution proclaiming March 30th

as "Welcome Home Viet nam Veterans Day."

It was introduced by North Carolina Republican Richard Burr

to commemorate March 30th, 1973, which was the last day of the conflict.

If not for my Native American heritage, this date would have still gone unnoticed.

why does this country still take that conflict out on our warriors?

This Ain't Hell, But You Can See It From Here

Viet Nam Veterans Day

September 29, 2011

Our Navy's Newest Ship is Made in America

The USS Spruance, our Navy's newest destroyer, pulled into Key West, Florida

this week and will be commissioned on October 1st.

Although I am not pleased with the current war and war machines, we need

to understand that many counties are just waiting for us to slip up,

so that they can crush peace loving countries around the world.

But the best part of this, I believe, is that this new ship and her sister ship,

the USS Michael Murphy, were and are being made in the United States by Americans.

The USS Murphy is slated for completion next year at Bath Iron Works in Maine.

For now, the Navy's newest destroyer the USS Spruance, pays a port call in Key West.

The USS Spruance

September 26, 2011

Homeless Grandmother given a home

As shown in this story, Veterans groups help more than just Veterans.

Why in this great country are there still people like Sandie Wilbanks,

our military Veterans and Elders on Reservations living in such terrible conditions?

The only thing that sandie did to our society was to lose her husband and go blind.

The only thing that our Viet Nam Veterans did was to fight for our freedom

in a war that was never really supported and few approved of in America.

And finally, the only thing that Elder Native Americans have done,

is to be born Native Americans.

What is that old saying, "there but for the grace of God, go you or I?"

You never know, you could be the next homeless person on the street.

Paying It Forward

VORRH

September 23, 2011

The USS Florida

The state of Florida has a long list of her people who have served,

are serving and I am sure will be serving in our Navy for this country.

Did you know that the state has also had many ships serving our country also?

There have been at least ten ships named for the state, some by fuel,

and one by Nuclear.

each has its own story to tell about Florida's past,

present and the future.

Many have had different missions, some have been reconstructed

and at least one is now a training ship.

Despite their differences they carry a special name:

USS Florida

Florida on the High Seas

September 20, 2011

A New ERA in Welcome Home

This should be happening in every state in this country!

The Warriors Watch Riders organize events for servicemen and women,

who are either deploying or coming home from service to our country.

the mission of the Warrior Watch Riders is to make sure that servicemen

and women know that there are people supporting them before they go,

as well as during and after they return home.

Ride coordinator Barb Fitzpatrick says, "This is to honor the soldiers coming

and going into war zones because of the way men came home from Viet Nam.

We don't want them to come home or go feeling ashamed."

Minooka Marine Gets Honorable Send Off

September 16, 2011

Why Did This Take Two Years?

President Obama gave the Medal of Honor to Marine Corporal Dakota Meyer

yesterday at the White House, but why did this take two years to happen?

Didn't this outstanding soldier, who claims to only to have done his job,

deserve to have this award given to him long ago?

Going against orders, Meyer chose instead at great personal risk,

to save the 36 lives of both American and Afghan soldiers.

Obama awards Medal of Honor

Marine Receives Medal of Honor at White House

September 5, 2011

And now, The Blue Angels are goin' green!