There is nothing quite like serving on a naval vessel. The vastness of the ocean lets you know just how big the world is, especially when you see a massive aircraft carrier become a mere dot in the distance — just before she vanishes over the horizon.
I spent many nights looking out over the ocean — as the screws caused a trailing wake propelling the mass of metal through the water, the only sounds were the hum of the engines and the ship bouncing over the waves. At times, the sea would kiss my face, the salt lingering as a pleasant reminder.
It was then that the sea became part of me and, all these years later, it still is ---- God I miss it.
The pride of serving your country is a feeling few have. The willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice is something even fewer understand.
Happy Independence Day.