Introduction
You might live hundreds or even thousands of miles from the nearest ocean. So, why should you care about the U.S. Navy? Isn’t naval dominance just a given? Commander Benjamin Armstrong, a U.S. Navy officer, in a 2010 article in UNSI online reminded us of a crucial truth: American naval dominance is not a birthright. It’s a choice. And that choice is made by you, the American people.
For generations, many of us have simply assumed that the U.S. Navy is, and always will be, the most powerful force on the seas. But history tells a different story.
A Fleeting Moment of Dominance
Commander Armstrong points out that a period of “total American naval dominance” really only existed briefly – from 1943 to 1945, at the height of World War II. After that, our Navy’s strength has risen and fallen like a “sine wave,” influenced by how Americans viewed their role in the world and what they told their elected leaders.
This isn’t just military history; it’s a fundamental lesson about national priorities. When we, as a nation, choose to invest in and support our Navy, it thrives. When we don’t, its strength can diminish, leaving our country vulnerable.
More Than Just Ships: How the Navy Benefits YOU
So, why does this matter to you, an everyday American? Our Founding Father, Alexander Hamilton, understood this centuries ago. He laid out three vital connections between a strong Navy and a strong America:
Your Wallet and Your Job: When the Navy builds ships, it creates hundreds of thousands of jobs across the country. Think about it: steel from Pennsylvania, electronics from California, specialized components from dozens of states – all come together in shipyards in Maine, Virginia, Mississippi, and more. These are high-paying, skilled trade jobs that support families and local economies in communities you might never associate with the ocean.
For example: A single major shipbuilding project can ripple through the economy, supporting small businesses and skilled workers from coast to coast. This isn’t just about defense; it’s about Made in America jobs and economic prosperity.
Peace, Trade, and Global Stability: The U.S. Navy plays a critical role in keeping global trade routes safe. From the goods on store shelves to the energy that powers your home, a huge portion of what we consume travels by sea. When the Navy ensures freedom of navigation, it keeps prices stable and supply chains secure.
In a world with rising global competition and unpredictable threats, a powerful U.S. Navy acts as a deterrent, influencing international relations and protecting American interests without firing a shot. It’s how we maintain peace through strength.
A Shared American Identity: The Navy is a melting pot, bringing together Americans from every state, every background, and every walk of life. Sailors from your hometowns – men and women who join to serve our nation – learn valuable skills, gain unique experiences, and return to their communities as leaders and skilled professionals. This shared service helps forge a stronger, more unified national identity.
Your Choice Matters
The current geopolitical landscape is complex. Near-peer competitors are rapidly expanding their navies, and the global environment demands a strong American presence. The future direction of our country, our economic security, and our ability to influence world events depend on the choices we make today about our Navy.
We are at an “all hands on deck” moment. It’s time for all of us to understand that supporting our Navy isn’t just about military might; it’s about investing in American jobs, securing our economy, and protecting our way of life.
History will judge how we respond. Let’s ensure that future generations can look back and see that we chose to maintain American naval dominance, not as a birthright, but as a deliberate act of national will.
What You Can Do:
Learn More: Explore the facts about our Navy’s current state and its vital roles.
Speak Up: Let your elected representatives know that a strong U.S. Navy is important to you and your community.
Support Our Sailors: Show appreciation for the men and women who serve and their families.
Support StrongeeNavy.org: Sign up for our newsletter and show your support for the U.S.Navy.
Shout out to Dale A. Jenkins, Senior Advisor for the supporting material.