USS Abraham Lincoln

Last week I had the opportunity to land on the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln— "Shall Not Perish!" What an incredible sensory experience to go from 150 mph to 0 in less than three seconds and then to walk out on the flight deck to see the hive of activity undertaken every day to launch fighter jets and then land them safely. As was my experience on the submarine USS Charlotte, the level of professionalism and competence of these sailors, some of them barely college age, was incredibly impressive and patriotism-inspiring. The leadership of the commanders was first rate as they went out of their way to make sure their charges received constant feedback and acknowledgment for their efforts. We got to speak to the Captain as he navigated the ship, the Admiral about the overall strategy of our naval forces, and every support commander from the Air Boss to the meteorolgists to the main mechanics. At each meal we sat with sailors, pilots, or Chief Warrant Officers to hear their "Navy stories" and they were all impressive. Just the thought of being away from families for six months— many of them missed the births of their children— and the forthrightness with which they approached their duties was truly admirable. Allright enough writing; I will let the pictures speak for themselves.