Wharf Rat's Home - A Shipmate Who Never Made it to Sea.

'It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us -- that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion -- that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain -- that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.'

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.

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

A Navy Cross Ceremony

WASHINGTON (May 10, 2011) Marines march past the Marine Corps War Memorial during a Navy Cross medal award ceremony honoring Gunnery Sgt. Brian M. Blonder for his actions while serving as a platoon sergeant in Force Reconnaissance Platoon, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Marine Corps Forces Central Command (Forward). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin S. O'Brien/Released)

WASHINGTON (May 10, 2011) Gunnery Sgt. Brian M. Blonder renders honors during the National Anthem before receiving the Navy Cross medal for his actions while serving as a platoon sergeant in Force Reconnaissance Platoon, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Marine Corps Forces Central Command (Forward). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin S. O'Brien/Released)