Memorial

Naval Station Norfolk...the USS Cole:

In the way of saying goodbye to Virginia, we visited the Naval Station last weekend.  What we found inspired me to post a tribute today, instead.  We saw many things that day, and I will share more in another post.  But, what was so moving and sad was coming upon the USS Cole moored there.  Here in front of us was the ship that bore the brunt of the second major terrorist attack in this current war with Islamic radicals.  In 2000 seventeen on our good men and women were killed and thirty-nine were injured.  We remember them today....and remember all who have died for our freedom.  It is a priceless freedom paid for with many lives in many wars.  Today we hold them in honor, and remember....

I got permission to photograph the ship through the fence....

There is a plaque in memory of those who died that day.....

Flying proudly on the bow....Don't tread on me.....on us....on America!

And at the other end of the piers, yet another reminder of the war we fight yet today.  There sat the USS New York, created from at least 7 tons of steel from the World Trade Center.  May we never forget Sept 11 and those who gave their lives that day, unaware of the threat that loomed ahead.....

God bless all who have given so much for the rest of us.  May we take time to pray for their loved ones today and to remember their greatest sacrifices, especially those men and women who have sacrificed all for each of us since the Cole was attacked.  May we never forget.