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.

Monday, April 1, 2013

Gator Navy in Action

Crew of USS Boxer gets a Starbucks on board
Deployment on the USS Boxer (LHD 4) just got a little bit more like home. Crew members can now indulge in coffees, teas, and smoothies similar to what they’d find in their local Starbucks. This is the first ever Starbucks to open aboard an amphibious assault ship. Members of the ship’s crew were trained by Starbucks baristas and they’ve even coined the name “Starboxer” as the cafe’s name on board.
Crew members do have to pay for the treats, but all profits go to the ship’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation fund.