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Isn't it amazing? I know I'm just a silly romantic at heart, but in all my travels and the things I've seen, when I walk over places where the great men and women in history have walked, I get overwhelmed and tears are forming as I write this — there is this incredible sense of connection. I could almost feel McArthur, the Japanese dignitaries and what incredible courage it took and what emotions went through those who were suffering with loss of face (I studied Asian History, too). I'm so glad my parents thought enough of me to allow me to experience history — from both sides — winners and losers and to lovingly point out the costs for either situation. I love our country and I hurt for countries that are mislead to face off with us. I love our military — all of it — could never have served (wouldn't have thought to if I could), but I realized my station in life was to support them and hold them up to high standards and my country, as well.

Glad to hear she cleaned up well — she was spit/spot when I saw her that gray, drizzly day and to my delight, for once I didn't get sea sick, which I could manage standing on the dock. ;-)

"when I walk over places where the great men and women in history have walked, I get overwhelmed and tears are forming as I write this — there is this incredible sense of connection."

I have had this experience in many places, but one of the strongest has been in Valley Forge. When I stand on the hills and feel the breeze, I feel like I'm standing on sacred ground. George Washington Chapel in VF Park is an amazing place of beauty and solitude. I was drawn there to pray on the day the plane went down in the Hudson River last winter - just before the accident. I heard about it on the radio as I drove home. Gave me shivers.

I've seen the New Jersey fire her guns...both in practice and in anger.

From a mile away a 3 gun salvo will suck the air out of your lungs and make your ears pop.

When the rounds hit the hillside 8 miles away (and I was looking through the big eyes on the signal bridge) they would first leave a little "puff" at point of entry...then the side of the hill would slide away in what looked like a miniature volcanic landslide.

I could still see some great utility for these ships...if for nothing else than the "shock and awe" effect.