15 years ago on this date I was floating a few hundred miles off the coast of California onboard the U.S.S. John C. Stennis. We were steaming home towards sunny San Diego from a 6+ month deployment. It was the first U.S. Navy WestPac of the Millennium. We where enforcing the no-fly zone guarding against attacks from Saddam and Iraq during our months in the gulf.
This weekend while you’re BBQ’ing and enjoying the holiday, remember what it’s for. Our independence and the foundation set when our forefathers fought to bring this soon-to-be nation freedom is the very thing our troops defend to this very day. Don’t lose sight of that!
Enjoy safely with your loved ones, but also reflect and educate our little ones. Tip a couple back for those willing to volunteer, those willing to suffer the ultimate sacrifice for you, all in the face of protecting true freedoms across the world. Whether you care to believe it or not, they are out there standing the watch for you and your loved ones while you’re eating ribs and popping bottle caps!
Thank you to all my brothers and sisters that stand the watch! I think of you every single day! I am honored by the oath you’ve taken and your vow to protect my county and my loved ones.
God bless you. God bless America!
The Eagle still stands tall!