June 3, 2016

A Cruise through The Battle Of Midway

The Battle of Midway, one of the most important battles of the Pacific campaign in World War II, occurred between June 4 and 7, 1942. The battle took place only six months after Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor and one month after the Battle of the Coral Sea. The U.S. Navy defeated an attacking fleet of the Japanese navy near Midway Atoll, inflicting

June 3, 2016

Living the Legacy of Admiral Raymond Spruance

Editor's note: Cmdr. Manny Hernandez, Commanding Office of the USS Spruance (DDG 111), delivered the following address to his crew in the spirit of commemorating the Battle of Midway, which occurred 74 years ago this week. The USS Spruance is deployed in the Pacific as part of the Pacific Surface Action Group (PACSAG), during which the THIRD Fleet

May 29, 2016

Lest We Forget

Memorial Day is a time to honor those who have served our nation and made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Since the beginning of our great nation, U.S. Navy Sailors, and their ships, have gone in harm's way to protect our great nation. Each May, we take time to remember and honor these heroes. Below we've highlighted several Navy ships that

May 16, 2016

A Look Back at Top Gun

More than thirty years ago, stunning footage of F-14 Tomcats flashed across the silver screen and moviegoers were introduced to the high-speed operations and culture of naval aviation through the characters "Maverick," "Goose," "Iceman," and "Charlie." The release of the movie Top Gun on May 16, 1986, came at a time when naval aviation was very

May 13, 2016

Why Naval History Matters to Virginia

In 1788, only 13 years after the establishment of the U.S. Navy, Virginia ratified the constitution, and became the 10th state to enter the Union. The state's heritage includes hosting the first North American-English colony, which likely gave rise to the popular nickname, "Old Dominion." Virginia's naval lineage includes several landmark events

May 6, 2016

Battle of Coral Sea: Toughness in Battle Forges Committed Partners

It was the first sea battle in world history where opposing ships were not in visual range of one another during actual fighting. All damage to the ships was inflicted by aircraft. Secondly, it represented the first time since the Dec. 7th attacks that the enemy advance in the Pacific was halted. And finally, because of the battle's impact, it

April 29, 2016

Glory is the Reward of Valor - The Story of USS Cole

USS Cole (DDG 67), is named after Medal of Honor recipient Marine Corps Sgt. Darrell Samuel Cole. He enlisted in the Corps on Aug. 25, 1941. After completing basic training at Parris Island, S.C., he reported to Company H, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division. Although designated as a Field Music (bugler), he frequently put down his

April 29, 2016

Why the U.S. Navy Manages a Forest

The predawn light reflects an eerie blood-red from the underbellies of the incoming clouds. As the light penetrates the canopy, the last of the nocturnal creatures have returned to their refuge to wait out the coming light. High in the crown of a mighty oak, pacing with anticipation of the coming daylight, a roosted tom turkey shakes the forest

April 29, 2016

Naval History of Florida

Florida was the 27th state to join the Union in 1845 - just 70 years after the U.S. Navy was established. It has been rich in naval history since its inception. At least 32 U.S. Navy ships have been named after the state of Florida, its cities, places and people. The sixth, and most recent ship to bear the namesake is a cruise missile submarine

April 28, 2016

Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islanders in Naval History

Asian American and Pacific Islander Sailors, past and present, contribute to the strength of our force and the defense of our nation. May, designated as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, is an opportunity for us to celebrate their contributions and the diversity within the Navy. In 1990,?a bill was pass by Congress and signed by