Preserving a piece of US Maritime History - invaluable

The USS Olympia is a cruiser that fought in the Spanish American War in 1898 and has been preserved in Philadelphia. She's a one of a kind ship, a national historic monument, and in danger. She needs approximately $10-15 million in repairs to keep her a viable museum for years to come. If you have the resources, or connections to those resources, please consider helping. (full disclosure - there is no financial benefit to me to ask the question - we need to save this ship for posterity). Please contact me at 612-599-1935 or bdskon@fedex.com if you have additional questions.

Pages

Thursday, December 29, 2011

Jet launches from the flight deck.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 24, 2011) An E-2C Hawkeye assigned to the Sun Kings of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 116 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations (AOO) as part of a deployment to the western Pacific and Indian Oceans in support of coalition efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOO. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian Morales/Released)
Jet approaches the flight deck.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 24, 2011) An EA-6B Prowler assigned to the Lancers of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 131 approaches the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations (AOO) as part of a deployment to the western Pacific and Indian Oceans in support of coalition efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOO. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian Morales/Released)
Chief Damage Controlman Alan Vanmarter, dressed as Santa Claus, passes out gifts during a holiday gift event for Sailors and Marines aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41).
(Dec. 25, 2011) Chief Damage Controlman Alan Vanmarter, dressed as Santa Claus, passes out gifts during a holiday gift event for Sailors and Marines aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41). Whidbey Island is deployed as part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photograph by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Rachael L. Leslie/Released)

USS MINNESOTA Logo Unveiling on Flicker

USS MINNESOTA Logo Unveiling

See the finest logo/crest in the US Navy!

Friday, December 23, 2011

Most Incredible Christmas Light Show Yet! : Video Clips From The Coolest One

Most Incredible Christmas Light Show Yet! : Video Clips From The Coolest One

Thanks for visiting the Wharf Rat's home this year. Almost 25,000 views since March!

Read Luke 2 from the bible and you will all know what Christmas is really all about.

Merry Christmas to all!

Sunday, December 18, 2011

The Official Ships Crest of the Fast Attack Submarine MINNESOTA

  • Maroon and Gold represent the University of Minnesota
  • Blue in the anchor links represent the color in the Minnesota state flag
  • The 3 stars in the anchor links represent the three ships named MINNESOTA
  • The star in the helmet represents the North Star
  • The blue in the background in the state represents the lakes of Minnnesota
  • The Latin states 'From the North Star, Power' (or Strength)
  • The Walleye in the bow represents the state fish of Minnesota
  • The Viking represents the Scandinavian heritage of Minnesota, as well as a seafaring lineage
  • SSN 783 means 'Ship, Submersible, Nuclear' - hull number 783
The MINNESOTA will christen in November 2012, and commission in fall, 2013.

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

An honored day, with honorable men - Remember Pearl Harbor, and remember these men

Pearl Harbor survivors observe the U.S. Naval Sea Cadets Concert Band of the West perform at the Pearl Harbor Visitor's Center during Kama'aina and military appreciation day.
PEARL HARBOR (Dec. 4, 2011) Pearl Harbor survivors observe the U.S. Naval Sea Cadets Concert Band of the West perform at the Pearl Harbor Visitor's Center during Kama'aina and military appreciation day. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the 1941 attacks on Pearl Harbor in which more than 2,400 people died. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Daniel Barker/Released) 

Friday, December 2, 2011

The son of Electrician's Mate (Nuclear) 1st Class Randall White, assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), waves to his father's ship.


A sister ship to PCU MInnesota SSN 783

The Virginia-class submarine USS North Carolina (SSN 777) departs Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam for their first operational deployment to the western Pacific region.
 JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (Dec. 1, 2011) The Virginia-class submarine USS North Carolina (SSN 777) departs Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam for their first operational deployment to the western Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ronald Gutridge/Released)

2 More 'Physiological Incidents' Related to F-22 - Defense News

2 More 'Physiological Incidents' Related to F-22 - Defense News


very worrisome

Vinson deploys again after 5 months at home - Navy News | News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

Vinson deploys again after 5 months at home - Navy News News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times
Medal of Honor recipient retired Capt. Thomas Hudner salutes while taps is played.
WASHINGTON (Dec. 1. 2011) Medal of Honor recipient retired Capt. Thomas Hudner salutes while taps is played during the Centennial of Naval Aviation wreath laying ceremony at the United States Navy Memorial in Washington D.C. Hudner received the medal of honor for his attempted rescue of Ens. Jesse Brown during the Korean War. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Mikelle D. Smith/Released)

USS Carl Vinson Strike Group Departs for Deployment

USS Carl Vinson Strike Group Departs for Deployment

Georgetown Students Discover China’s Nuclear Arsenal Could Be Larger than Previously Estimated

Georgetown Students Discover China’s Nuclear Arsenal Could Be Larger than Previously Estimated

Friday, November 25, 2011

Take a look at this data from the Naval Historical Society

Active Duty US Navy Numbers from 1886 to Present

What great information, and it documents the decline in numbers of the fleet.
A logo to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the commissioning of the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65).
NORFOLK (Nov. 23, 2011) A logo to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the commissioning of the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). U.S. Navy photo illustration/Released)

Friday, November 18, 2011

The decommissioned Spruance-class destroyer ex-Paul F. Foster (EDD 964) conducts a successful demonstration of shipboard alternative fuel use while underway in the Pacific Ocean.
PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 17, 2011) The decommissioned Spruance-class destroyer ex-Paul F. Foster (EDD 964) conducts a successful demonstration of shipboard alternative fuel use while underway in the Pacific Ocean on a 50-50 blend of an algae-derived, hydro-processed algal oil and petroleum F-76. Paul F. Foster has been reconfigured as the Self-Defense Test Ship to provide the Navy an at-sea, remotely controlled, engineering test and evaluation platform without the risk to personnel or operational assets. (U.S. Navy photo by Charlie Houser/Released)
he Nimitz-class aircraft carriers USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) and USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) steam alongside one another in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Nimitz-class aircraft carriers USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) and USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) steam alongside one another in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Nimitz-class aircraft carriers USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) and USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) steam alongside one another in the Strait of Hormuz.
STRAIT OF HORMUZ (Nov. 12, 2011) The Nimitz-class aircraft carriers USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) and USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) steam alongside one another in the Strait of Hormuz. John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) bow in prayer.
PHILIPPINE SEA (Nov. 16, 2011) Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) bow in prayer during a burial at sea ceremony. George Washington is on a scheduled patrol in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Juan Pinalez/Released)
Capt. Brian E. Luther, commanding officer of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush presents the national ensign to Master Chief Electrician's Mate Brian C. Legg during a burial at sea ceremony.
RED SEA (Nov. 17, 2011) Capt. Brian E. Luther, commanding officer of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), presents the national ensign to Master Chief Electrician's Mate Brian C. Legg during a burial at sea ceremony. George H.W. Bush is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility on its first operational deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Brian Read Castillo/Released)

Monday, November 14, 2011

F/A-18 Hornets perform a fly-by at the conclusion of the presentation of colors during the inaugural Quicken Loans Carrier Classic basketball game.

SAN DIEGO (Nov. 11, 2011) F/A-18 Hornets perform a fly-by at the conclusion of the presentation of colors during the inaugural Quicken Loans Carrier Classic basketball game on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). Carl Vinson is hosting Michigan State University and the University of North Carolina for an NCAA basketball game. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class James R. Evans/Released)

Blue Angels close season with Pensacola show - Navy News | News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

Blue Angels close season with Pensacola show - Navy News News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

“That is so neat!” William Murrah yelled as he watched through binoculars as an A-10 and P-51 flew together in formation before the Blues took to the air.
Murrah, an eye surgeon, said he enjoyed watching the warbirds in the sky.
“I find the old planes thoroughly fascinating,” he said.
Those old war planes are flown by people such as Mike Burke, who considers himself an airplane fanatic.
“People can have their boats and stuff, but we have airplanes,” Burke, 62, of Galveston, Texas, said.
Burke, along with a handful of others, donned jumpsuits to fly old warplanes during the air show.
And it takes a true aeronaut-lover for the job.
Burke was joined by fellow enthusiast Ted Short, 80, a Korean War vet from Fort Worth, Texas.
“I never dreamt I’d be able to touch one or fly in one or just to be able to see one, so I jumped on the chance when I got the opportunity,” Short said. He flew a 1945 SB2C Helldiver twice during the air show.
“When I was a kid, I made models of all these airplanes,” Short said as he gestured toward the lineup of warbirds before they took off. “What’s nice about this is getting to teach people about what these planes are and what they did.”

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Navy, Corps buying decommissioned U.K. Harriers - Navy News | News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

Navy, Corps buying decommissioned U.K. Harriers - Navy News News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

This is a great plan. And of course - it shows that these aircraft are not worn out, just that GB is spending too much on domestic welfare programs like every other country and not in defending itself!

Friday, November 4, 2011

Does this suprise anyone?

Obama Administration Opposes adding FDR Prayer at WWII Memorial

The objection was noted during a congressional hearing on Rep. Bill Johnson's, R-Ohio, bill -- the "World War II Memorial Prayer Act of 2011." 
"It is unconscionable that the Obama administration would stand in the way of honoring our nation's distinguished World War II veterans," Johnson said. "President Roosevelt's prayer gave solace, comfort and strength to our nation and our brave warriors as we fought against tyranny and oppression." 
Roosevelt asked the nation to join him in prayer as U.S. and allied troops launched the invasion that led to the defeat of Nazi Germany. He asked God to give the allied troops courage and faith, saying, "With thy blessing we shall prevail over the unholy forces of our enemy." 
"It is not a judgment as to the merit of this new commemoration, simply that altering the Memorial in this way, as proposed in HR 2070, will necessarily dilute this elegant memorial's central message and its ability to clearly convey that message to move, educate, and inspire its many visitors," Abbey said in written testimony. 
Abbey explained to lawmakers that altering the memorial would be contrary to the Commemorative Works Act -- a law that prohibits "encroachment by a new commemoration on a existing one." It also respects the design of the "completed work of civic art without alteration or addition of new elements." 

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Royal Navy’s New Submarine Gets Royal Approval | Navy News at DefenseTalk

Royal Navy’s New Submarine Gets Royal Approval Navy News at DefenseTalk

Wharf Rat is two months behind - HMS Astute is commissioned into the Royal Navy!

New Destroyer Zumwalt Shaping Up - Defense News

New Destroyer Zumwalt Shaping Up - Defense News

CNO: Navy to reconsider Mayport carrier move - Navy News | News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

CNO: Navy to reconsider Mayport carrier move - Navy News News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

From the blog of Cdr Salamander, linked below for your viewing pleasure - I had to copy, but it def. came from his blog.

The Sound of Freedom

Especially the buckets of mental FOD that complain about TACAIR in and around NAS Oceana and the fight for a decent outlying field to practice in nearby - we all know those letters and emails about noise problems. Airfield has been there 70 years, home 25 years, new owner .... Well, sometimes you have to read the letters/emails very closely.
To: Hubbard, Mark A CAPT CSFWP Commodore
Cc: White, Michael S RDML(S) NPC, Pers-4
Subject: Noise Complaint

Captain Hubbard,

I am having an issue with noise that is generated by aircraft based at NAS Lemoore (and elsewhere), specifically, with their use of a low level military training route that your command is the controlling authority for. Rather than deal with mere underlings, I thought it best to go directly to the source of "where the buck stops." That would be you.

My home is located in a rural area of California's Sacramento Valley. I was unaware that when I purchased this home 21 years ago, it was located directly under the centerline of VR-201 (or VR-202, I can't remember which one it is), at GPS coordinates N39.38.610 W121.48.710, 210' MSL (according to the GPS in my car). Over the last 21 years, I have been subjected to the repeated injustices, insults to my eardrums, and affronts to my sensibilities as an American Taxpayer, that your jets have been responsible for. In the early 90's the use of this low level training route was frequent, but I tolerated it nonetheless. From about 1995 until early this year, use of this route was only occasional and sporadic, so I could generally overlook the issue. However, in the last three weeks, there has been a noticeable increase it its use. Specifically, I have observed the following,

1. August 30th, 1135 AM PDT - A single F-18

2. September 18th, 1430 PM PDT - A single EA-6B

3. September 19th, 1120 AM PDT - A single F-18

4. September 19th, 1145 AM PDT - A single F-18

Here is my specific complaint.....

1. None of these overflights were low enough...

2. None of these overflights were loud enough......

3. And, none of these overflights were fast enough!!!

As an American Taxpayer, I pay good, hard earned money, to provide your young Naval Aviators the best training possible. For that money, I EXPECT to get something for it. If my house is not shaken to its foundation, if the windows do not rattle in their frames, I judge this display of airmanship as incredibly weak. All of these jets listed above, were so high, that I could not tell if the Hornets were Super Hornets or Legacy Hornets (the Electic-6 was unmistakable). These jets were so high, that after one of them flew by, my wife looked at me and said, "That fly-by is so wimpy, you should call it a "Whisperjet".

The ultimate goal is to earn a five-star rating, as viewed by me. To earn a five-star rating, your jets should create enough noise to break at least one window in the house. Not since '92-'93 has that happened. At the time, a flight of eight jets in a combat spread formation passed over my house at about 200' AGL, approximately 500+ knots. This flight consisted of four Hornets, two Intruders and two Turkeys. The thundering noise was awesome! Not only did I have to replace a few windows, but several of my neighbors did as well!! That was a fly-by truly worthy of Naval Aviators.

As a former naval Aviator (back in the day, we flew Lot V Hornets with planning link failures and collapsed landing gear), I am hugely embarrassed for my younger brethren. You and your young naval Aviators should be ashamed, for you have subjected me and my family to the indignity of these transgressions. My son, who is a KC-135 pilot in the Air Force has observed some these so-called "fly-bys", and has said that even his jet makes more noise when it is at 5,000' at cruise power settings.

As you know, to fly the American flag upside down is a sign of distress. Perhaps you should bring in the young Naval Aviators responsible for these affronts to our dignity, and instruct them to wear their Wings of Gold upside down on their flight suits the next time they visit the O'Club, as a sign of their humility and penance for committing these transgressions.

Very respectfully,

Carl A. Raabe VFA-113 (circa '87-'90)

Sunday, October 30, 2011

USS CALIFORNIA SSN 781 - welcome to the Fleet! Wharf Rat was there!

Sailors assigned to the  Virginia-class attack submarine USS California (SSN 781) salute during the commissioning ceremony for the Virginia-class attack submarine USS California (SSN 781).

World War II submarine veteran Joe Cox, right, passes the long glass to set the first watch during the commissioning ceremony for the Virginia-class attack submarine USS California (SSN 781).

Approximately 2,500 people attend the commissioning ceremony for the Virginia-class attack submarine USS California (SSN 781) at Naval Station Norfolk.

 NORFOLK (Oct. 29, 2011) Approximately 2,500 people attend the commissioning ceremony for the Virginia-class attack submarine USS California (SSN 781) at Naval Station Norfolk. California is the eighth Virginia-class submarine and will be homeported in Groton, Conn. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric C. Tretter/Released)

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

http://cdrsalamander.blogspot.com/2011/10/pom-bomb.html - go read the who thing

The POM Bomb


When you consider all that happy talk as Admiral Roughead was going out the door about making sure ships can make it 30, 35, 50, 75 years - this data point should provide the real Roughead legacy, in a fashion.

Via a forwarded email, Names removed to protect pretty much everyone involved. In part;
Based upon the ALT POM changes- the Department plans to inactivate the ships below:

CG (FY 13): 60, 68, 69, 71
CG (FY 14): 59, 63, 64, 65, 66
LSD (FY 14): 41, 43, 46

While there may be some further discussion with the CGs with respect to which ones in which year- these are the hull numbers (and OPNAV concurred).

Per 10 USC 2244A, any modernization (except safety modifications or modifications costing less than $100K) is not allowed within 5 years of retirement/disposal. NAVSEA (any SYSCOM) should not provide FY 12 (or remaining FY 11) procurement funds to any of the above platforms (except safety modifications). If funds are already spent on these platforms, that is okay given that these are recent changes. The key is to ensure no new money is being spent.
+/- a year or two, this is where we are:
- USS CAPE ST. GEORGE (CG-71) was commissioned in 1993. In FY13 she will be, yes Liberal Arts math here - 20 years old.
- USS PRINCETON (CG-59), commissioned in 1989 in FY14 will be 25 years old.
- USS WHIDBEY ISLAND (LSD-41) commissioned in 1985 will in FY14 be 29 years old;
- USS TORTUGA (LSD-46) will be 24 years old.

Look what US Marines can do! Park two stealth a/c on the flight deck of the WASP!

BF-04, front, a Marine Corps variant of the F-35B Lighting II Joint Strike Fighter, maneuvers after a vertical landing as BF-02 approaches the flight deck for landing on the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1).
BF-02, front, and BF-04, two Marine Corps variants of the F-35B Lighting II Joint Strike Fighter, are secured on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) during sea trials.

BF-02, front, and BF-04, two Marine Corps variants of the F-35B Lighting II Joint Strike Fighter, are secured on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) during sea trials.
ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct 15, 2011) BF-04, front, a Marine Corps variant of the F-35B Lighting II Joint Strike Fighter, maneuvers after a vertical landing as BF-02 approaches the flight deck for landing on the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1). The F-35B is capable of short takeoffs and vertical landings for use on amphibious ships or expeditionary airfields to provide air power to the Marine Air Ground Task Force. (U.S. Navy photo By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tommy Lamkin/Released)

PCU Minnesota Sailors Conduct Second Namesake Visit

PCU Minnesota Sailors Conduct Second Namesake Visit

The Wharf Rat was responsible for the schedule of this trip for the Sailors - and let me tell you, the COB is hilarious! Wonder if he's that funny on the boat?

Monday, October 10, 2011

PCU Minnesota SSN 783's Videos



The Wharf Rat is chair of this contest - and anyone with a Minnesota connection can participate (and we are loose with that definition. Time is short so get the word out - go to www.ussminnesota.org to participate.

Thursday, October 6, 2011

making history

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct. 4, 2011) Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Kristopher Smith gives the thumbs up for pilot Lt. Col. Fred Schenk to lift an F-35B Lightning II off the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1). The F-35B is the Marine Corps Joint Strike Force variant of the Joint Strike Fighter. The aircraft is undergoing testing aboard Wasp. (U.S. Navy photo By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Andrew Rivard/Released)
Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Kristopher Smith gives the thumbs up for pilot Lt. Col. Fred Schenk to lift an F-35B Lightning II off the flight deck.

An aviation boatswain's mate directs an F-35B Lightning II after it completes the first vertical landing on a flight deck at sea aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1).

Lt. Col. Fred Schenk lifts an F-35B Lightning II off the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1).

Monday, October 3, 2011

Video of the first landing by an F-35 on USS Wasp LHD 1

The First Vertical Landing of F-35 - making history!

A first - making history!

An F-35B Lightning II  makes the first vertical landing on a flight deck at sea aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1
ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct. 3, 2011) An F-35B Lightning II makes the first vertical landing on a flight deck at sea aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1). The F-35B is the Marine Corps Joint Strike Force variant of the Joint Strike Fighter and is designed for short takeoff and vertical landing on Navy amphibious ships. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Seaman Natasha R. Chalk/Released)
An F-35B Lightning II  makes the first vertical landing on a flight deck at sea aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1).

An F-35B Lightning II prepares to make the first vertical landing on a flight deck at sea aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1).
Joe Carmichael - hero of USS Bunker Hill, passes to the next great sea commander

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Corps asking Navy to extend Peleliu’s service - Navy News | News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

Corps asking Navy to extend Peleliu’s service - Navy News News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

I saw a picture once w/two Tarawa class big decks in Pascagula finishing construction in 1979. It's only because of money we can't do that now.

You can't tell me there are cost advantages to building them together

From Our New Chief of Naval Operations - Wharf Rat likes what he's hearing!

Tenets

The key considerations we should apply to every decision

Warfighting First: Be ready to fight and win today, while building the ability to win tomorrow

Operate Forward: Provide offshore options to deter, influence and win in an era of uncertainty

Be Ready: Harness the teamwork, talent and imagination of our diverse force to be ready to fight and responsibly employ our resources

Guiding Principles

The starting point for developing and executing our plans
  • Our primary mission is warfighting. All our efforts to improve capabilities, develop people, and structure our organizations should be grounded in this fundamental responsibility.
  • People are the Navy’s foundation. We have a professional and moral obligation to uphold a covenant with Sailors, Civilians and their families * to ably lead, equip, train and motivate.
  • Our approach should be Joint and combined when possible. However, we own the sea, and must also be able to operate independently when necessary.
  • Our primary Joint partner is the U.S. Marine Corps. We must continue to evolve how we will operate and fight as expeditionary warfare partners.
  • At sea and ashore, we must be ready to part with Navy roles, programs and traditions if they are not integral to our future vision or a core element of our mission.
  • We must ensure today’s force is ready for its assigned missions.
  • Maintaining ships and aircraft to their expected service lives is an essential contribution to fleet capacity.
  • Our Navy Ethos defines us and describes the standard for character and behavior.
  • We must clearly and directly communicate our intent and expectations both within and outside the Navy.
  • I believe in the “Charge of Command.” We will train and empower our leaders with authorities commensurate with their responsibilities.

Race relations better in the South? Economic growth in the South? Read this article and see if this doesn't make sense. (sorry to digress from US Navy issues, but this article rings true)

Southern Like Me?  click the link and read it all

"It’s quite a story, actually. Americans, black and white alike, are moving in record numbers to a part of the country where taxes are low, unions are irrelevant, and people love their guns and their faith. And yet we have heard hardly a peep about this great migration from our nation’s public intellectuals.
Why? Because their ideological prejudices won’t permit them to admit the obvious. They’d prefer to focus their research on the pre-1970s South because they are more comfortable with — and more invested in — that old narrative, while this new one marches on right under their noses. And their keyboards.
And so it is with a sense of puzzlement that this Jersey boy turned Mississippian watches the decision making of President Obama. Millions of Americans may have voted for him in 2008, but millions have been voting with their feet, and he doesn’t seem the least bit interested in understanding why.
Last December, gun manufacturer Winchester moved one of its plants — and 1,000 jobs — from East Alton, Ill., to my small town of Oxford. Joseph Rupp, who runs the company, explained: “While I am disappointed that employees represented by the International Association of Machinists chose to reject a proposal that would have allowed us to remain competitive in East Alton, we look forward to expanding our existing operations in Mississippi.”'

Saturday, October 1, 2011

The littoral combat ship Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Fort Worth (LCS 3) transits through the Menekaunee Bridge in Green Bay, Wis.
GREEN BAY, Wis. (Sept. 28, 2011) The littoral combat ship Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Fort Worth (LCS 3) transits through the Menekaunee Bridge in Green Bay, Wis. Fort Worth is undergoing builder's trials at the Marinette Marine Corporation Shipyard before delivery to the U.S. Navy in 2012. (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Marinette Marine Corporation/Released)

Navy explores longer sub deployments - Navy News | News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

Navy explores longer sub deployments - Navy News News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

How about spending more to build more subs?

When we were building 688 boats, we were building up to 3 per year.

This one per year, and now even two per year is only slowing the decline, not stopping it.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Christian Pastor Faces execution for not recanting his faith - IN IRAN

Christian Pastor faces execution for simply being a Christian in Iran - this is outrageous

Folks - thanks for coming to Wharf Rats place. 

Please understand this - if we stand by and let this happen, we are cowards. 

If we continue to let Iran be a bad actor in world affairs, then we are cowards.

I'm tired of this country, that has definitely caused US deaths in Iraq due to supplying weapons to bad guys in Iraq.  I'm tired of no one standing up to these fruitcakes.

It is time.

Friday, September 23, 2011

Great shot of Wasp and Enterprise in the background

Members of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 7 perform search and rescue jumps for qualification.
NAVAL STATION NORFOLK (Sept. 21, 2011) Members of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 7 perform search and rescue jumps for qualification at Naval Station Norfolk. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Christopher B. Stoltz/Released)

Thursday, September 22, 2011

Adm. Roughead's final SITREP



Fair winds and following sea's...........

DoD Buzz | Lockheed: F-35B is ready for sea. Is the ship?

DoD Buzz Lockheed: F-35B is ready for sea. Is the ship?

Great article about progress in the USMC/US Navy team.

Now lets get the F-35B to the Wasp and see what happens.

My bet - American Industry figures it out, and we have a better aircraft than the Harrier, and God Bless the Harriers for what they've done over the years.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

U.S. ‘no’ on Taiwan F-16 bid reveals China sway - Navy News | News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

U.S. ‘no’ on Taiwan F-16 bid reveals China sway - Navy News News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

Another cowardly step by the Obama administration...........there's a simple fact in this article that is missing.........the Chinese need us as much as we seem to need them.

If they start playing bad guy w/our debt, then it hurts US companies ability to purchase from Chinese factories.

The commies can play hardball all they want, but they still need American consumers to by their junk!

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

This is a great photo - if you want to know what achievement means to someone, and all the hard work it takes to get there, this is it

Chief Information Systems Technician Shantishra Williams stands at attention as Chief Boatswain's Mate Dale Kintz dons her combination cover during the 2011 chief petty officer pinning ceremony aboard USS Comstock (LSD 45).
PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 16, 2011) Chief Information Systems Technician Shantishra Williams stands at attention as her sponsor, Chief Boatswain's Mate Dale Kintz, dons her combination cover during the 2011 chief petty officer pinning ceremony aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Comstock (LSD 45). Comstock is deployed in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility during a western Pacific deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph M. Buliavac/Released)
The aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) departs Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka to conduct a patrol of the western Pacific region.
YOKOSUKA, Japan (Sept. 19, 2011) The aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) departs Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka to conduct a patrol of the western Pacific region. George Washington is the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier. (U.S. Navy photo by Andrew Ryan Smith/Released)
The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) departs Naval Station Norfolk.

NORFOLK (Sept. 19, 2011) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) departs Naval Station Norfolk to begin a scheduled deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Karen E. Cozza/released) 
The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) transits San Diego Bay after getting underway from Naval Air Station North Island.
SAN DIEGO (Sept. 16, 2011) The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) transits San Diego Bay after getting underway from Naval Air Station North Island. Carl Vinson is underway conducting operations off the coast of Southern California. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephen Hale/Released)

Monday, September 12, 2011

'Fit into this tiny little spot - look at my hands, a little closer, a little closer..................

Aviation Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Eddie Berryhill directs a V-22 Osprey on its final approach aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1).
ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 9, 2011) Aviation Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Eddie Berryhill directs a V-22 Osprey on its final approach aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1). Wasp is underway conducting sea trials. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class Justin K. Thomas/Released) 

Don't Mess with the Marines

Marines assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (11th MEU) participate in a live-fire exercise aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8).
PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 10, 2011) Marines assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (11th MEU) participate in a live-fire exercise aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8). The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group is conducting a composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX) off the coast of Southern California. COMPTUEX is a training exercise designed to test capabilities and ensure overall readiness before deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason Behnke/Released)

Egyptians ransacking the Israeli embassy - and 6 guards almost were killed

Egypt - Even worse than what was thought - from Powerlineblog.com

Va. Shipyard Humming, But Uncertainty Looms - Defense News

Va. Shipyard Humming, But Uncertainty Looms - Defense News

Very, very good article on US Navy shipbuilding, and of course, mentioning PCU Minnesota SSN 783

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

U.S. Postal Service Faced with Heavy Deficit and Hard Decisions - Current Rates, News and Information about Reducing Debt | Go Banking Rates

U.S. Postal Service Faced with Heavy Deficit and Hard Decisions - Current Rates, News and Information about Reducing Debt Go Banking Rates

Sorry folks .............. Wharf Rat digresses from Navy issues because Wharf Rat works for none other than The FedEx Corporation.

Our company has had to make hard decisions on employment levels, salaries, benefits, and other expenditures - including aircraft purchases over the years.

The United States Postal Service, and I'm not going to completely hammer away at the service provided because we all like our mail, has in no way adjusted to the reduced level of mail. They've maintained the same size work force because of union contracts, with a 22% drop in revenues. What do you think is going to happen? No way do I want to see it go away - but my goodness, the Wharf Rat could do a better job of managing it than what is happening today.

Read the article - lets see if it draws your comments. Especially read the last paragraph.

Forty Policemen Needed to Control Wisconsin Democrats

Since getting wiped out in the 2010 election and failing in their massively-financed recall elections, Wisconsin’s Democrats have embarked on a permanent temper tantrum. Like little children, they apparently intend to stamp their feet and hold their breath until they get their way. Most recently, they infiltrated and disrupted a Rotary meeting at which Paul Ryan was speaking. More than forty policemen were needed to keep the unruly Democrats under control; they escorted twenty from the Rotary meeting and arrested three.

http://www.powerlineblog.com/archives/2011/09/forty-policemen-needed-to-control-wisconsin-democrats.php


Wharf Rats says - hilarious!

Never, ever forget

U.S. Navy Sailors place flowers at the graves of American merchant mariners who died supporting the Polar Convoys.

MURMANSK, Russia (Sept. 3, 2011) Sailors assigned to the guided-missile frigate USS Carr (FFG 52) place flowers at the graves of American merchant mariners who died supporting the Polar Convoys. The convoys were a series of cargo routes from the United Kingdom and North America delivering vital supplies to the Soviet Union during World War II. Carr is on a three-month deployment supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jeff Troutman/Released)

Kurdistan Chief Calls for U.S. Troops To Stay - Defense News

Kurdistan Chief Calls for U.S. Troops To Stay - Defense News

Battleship Iowa to become museum in California - Navy News | News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

Battleship Iowa to become museum in California - Navy News News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

outstanding news - I'm making the assumption that this group was chosesn because of their finanaces...stronger than the other groups finances.

Now lets get USS Ranger CV 61 to Portland!

We need to save a super carrier....................

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Look at the future

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (Sept. 2, 2011) The littoral combat ship USS Independence (LCS-2) is moored in St. Petersburg during a labor day weekend port visit. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Matthew Comer/Released)

The littoral combat ship USS Independence (LCS-2) is moored in St. Petersburg.


The most capable amphibious fleet in the world

The amphibious dock landing ships USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) and USS Rushmore (LSD 47) share a pier with the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18).
SAN DIEGO (Aug. 31, 2011) The amphibious dock landing ships USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) and USS Rushmore (LSD 47) share a pier with the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) at Naval Base San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Joe Kane/Released) 
An AV-8B Harrier assigned to the Red Dragons of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 268
PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 2, 2011) An AV-8B Harrier assigned to the Red Dragons of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 268, from Yuma, Ariz., lands aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8). Makin Island is preparing for an upcoming deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class David McKee/Released)

Sunday, September 4, 2011

On September 4, 1945, the Japanese garrison surrendered to a detachment of United States Marines. The handover of Wake was conducted in a brief ceremony. From Wikepedia - and October 5 - is the Wharf Rat's birthday

After a successful American air raid on October 5, 1943, Sakaibara ordered the execution of all of the 98 captured Americans that remained on the island. They were taken to the northern end of the island, blindfolded, and machine-gunned. One prisoner escaped the massacre, carving the message "98 US PW 5-10-43" on a large coral rock near where the victims had been hastily buried in a mass grave. This unknown American was soon recaptured and beheaded. Sakaibara and his subordinate, Lieutenant Commander Tachibana, were later sentenced to death for this and other war crimes. Tachibana's sentence was later commuted to life in prison. The remains of the murdered civilians were exhumed and reburied at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in section G[26].

Pearl Harbor maintenance leaves ARG shorthanded - Navy News | News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

Pearl Harbor maintenance leaves ARG shorthanded - Navy News News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

Key point of this article............that USS Pearl Harbor had to defer maintenance in the past, that extended this yard period. This is another example of the money missing to fund routine maintance from the Navy's budget.

Yet - we seem to spend on the domestic side like there's no tomorrow, and can't hold the line on the debt ceiling. The US debt problem is not on the defense side, it's on the domestic side. Our recession is in part caused by elected officials who do not have the ability to say 'no' to anyone, but defense.

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Rendering Honors to the Fallen

Sailors and Marines render honors as the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) passes the USS Arizona Memorial while entering Pearl Harbor for a port visit.
 PEARL HARBOR (Aug. 31, 2011) Sailors and Marines render honors as the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) passes the USS Arizona Memorial while entering Pearl Harbor for a port visit. Ronald Reagan is in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin B. Gray/Released)
Sailors and Marines render honors as the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) passes the USS Arizona Memorial while entering Pearl Harbor for a port visit.

 Sailors and Marines render honors as the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) passes the USS Arizona Memorial.