USS Enterprise

[apkole]

When my wife and I along with 5000 other friends and family of sailors stationed spent a day last July on the Enterprise, standing in awe of her size and covering our ears as the launch and recovery of F 14 and F 18 was demonstrated -- as we watched her crew work as a team - - as we observed a Navy SEAL team pilot resue demonstration - - as we stood dumbfounded on a 5 acre flight deck and 23 stories and wondered how this ship could float --- little did we know. Our friend is stationed on the ship as a firefighter. He is in his early 20s. We agonized with his parents for his safety, but had every confidence in his ability to get the job done. Matt returned to us safely, along with the rest of the crew. In all of the flight ops and activity, the crew of the Enterprise lost not one member of the ships crew or the flight wing. The hit rate on assigned targets was 92%. This TDR member has never felt such patriotism and pride such as I have for this young man and his fellow sailors. When the call came, they were ready. They followed their training and stepped up to the plate and did the job. This after having already been at sea several months. They had also left some calling cards in Iraq.

As we dined with Matt and his parents last evening, it was gratifying to see individuals approach him with respect and thank him for his service to our country. He was humble in his demeanor, accepting of the gratitude, and gracious to all. I was as honored to be in his company as if the President was seated at our table.

Matt is returning tomorrow to the ship. Our prayers and good wishes go with him. God bless and keep safe those in uniform who serve and have served our country .

 

[Bill Lins]

Originally posted by apkole

God bless and keep safe those in uniform who serve and have served our country .

Amen.

 

[chuck3]

My Brother in law served on the Enterprise many years ago it is one hell of a ship. I'm so glad we treat our service Men and Women with the respect they deserve these days, and not like when I and many more like me returned from Nam. Its a different time now and different world. GOD BLESS AMERICA.

 

[LSMITH]

apkole, I recieved the same treatment you describe when I returned from the persian gulf. I can tell you that the servicemen and women appreciate the respect, kind words, and patriotism shown by the people around them. It makes a tough job a lot easier. Keep up the good work. As a veteran it makes me even more proud to see our military respected and treated as they deserve.