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

April 24, 2016

How Well Do You Know the Blue Angels?

It's true, the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, are pretty famous (they have performed for more than 450 million people) but how well do you know their history? Like most things Navy, the Blues, as they are affectionately called, are rooted in a proud and lasting heritage. Take a look back on how they became the fixture in

April 20, 2016

How Fear, Deception and Indecision Nearly Destroyed Norfolk Naval Shipyard

The United States Navy's oldest, largest and most multifaceted industrial facility is just a buck and change shy of its 250th anniversary in November 2017. But as flames consumed the structures and ships of Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) the evening of April 20, 1861, its future was very much in doubt.Photo #: NH 59179 Destruction of the United

April 18, 2016

The Doolittle Raiders - The Mission

On April 18, 1942, it was a "nice sun-shiny day overcast with anti-aircraft fire," according to Army Air Force Tech. Sgt. Eldred V. Scott. Over Tokyo, anyway. Scott's weather quip signaled the near completion of the Doolittle Raiders mission on that day 72 years ago today. But it was just the beginning of the unknown for the 80 men and their 16

April 15, 2016

Naval History of Texas

The Texas state motto is "Friendship," and? Texans definitely have a friend in their U.S. Navy, just ask anyone who has served on one of the over 100 ships named in honor of the state! If you believe everything really is bigger in Texas, then you have to learn more about the battleship USS Texas (BB 35). You can even go visit the ship, a member of

April 13, 2016

Naval History of Tennessee

When our U.S. Navy was just 21 years old, Tennessee, named after a Cherokee Indian word for river, was admitted to the union in 1796. Tennessee is known for its great barbeque, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and Elvis Presley.But what connection does Tennessee have to its U.S. Navy?There are at least 20 ships named after cities, places, and people

April 6, 2016

The Dixie Cup: An Everyday Icon and Historic Symbol

Of all uniform items issued to Sailors in the United States Navy, no other item may be as iconic as the white hat, affectionately known as the "Dixie Cup." This week, the Dixie Cup was further rooted in our heritage when the first female recruits at Recruit Training Command were issued their new enlisted white hats as part of the Navy's efforts