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.

Sunday, May 1, 2011

SECNAV: 11 carriers ‘about right’ - Navy News | News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

SECNAV: 11 carriers ‘about right’ - Navy News News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Navy Times

Both Roughead and Mabus have recently cheered the capabilities of big-deck amphibious assault ships — the Navy has nine in commission — saying it’s akin to having an extra fleet of flattops. Mabus highlighted the role amphibious ships play in enforcing the no-fly-zone over Libya, an operation with air support from Marine AV-8B Harriers and helicopters but not a single flight from a carrier.

Wharf Rat says - I'm the biggest fan of LHD's out there. It's accurate to say that it is an extra fleet of flattops, but Mabus is wrong to highlight the role of amphibious assault ship - there are just six Harriers on the flight deck. If he really wanted to impact the no-fly zone, then put 26 Harriers on one, and then absolutely you would impact the no-fly zone in Libya.