Author: billcullifer

Posted on

All Episodes Available Now! Dive Deep into the Future of Naval Power with “Charting the Course

Calling all members, friends, and naval enthusiasts!

The wait is over! All 7 information packef episodes with an historical perspectives and series overview including our very own thought leaders, discussing the top issues prior to our acclaimed series, “Charting the Course: Navigating the future of American naval power.”

All Episodes Available Now! Dive Deep into the Future of Naval Power with “Charting the Course are available for FREE at https://strongernavy.org/category/charting-the-course/.

Please Note: The blogpost in this special category start from the 1st in the series at the bottom of the page and work their way up.

You can bounce around of course, but to get the most out of the series start with the bottom post and work your way up.

Here’s a glimpse into what awaits you:

Embark on a thought-provoking journey as we explore critical topics with renowned experts, delving into the challenges and opportunities shaping the U.S. Navy’s future

Series starts December 7, 2023 scrolll down the page to find: Echoes of History: Steering the Future in Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power – Reflecting on WWII’s Legacy in Current Naval History

Inaugural Discussion: Welcome to Charting the Course: Navigating the  Future of American Naval Power’ a podcast series that dives into the past, present, and future of the U.S. Navy and its impact on the world. This is the inaugural discussion of our series with Billl Cullifer, founder for Americans for a Stronger Navy and Dale A. Jenkins, Senior Advisor and Author of Diplomats and Admirals” where we will introduce the main themes, topics and the speakers that we will explore in the coming episodes an eight-week journey that delves into the intricacies of naval power and the pivotal issues shaping our future security and stability

Episode 1: Dr. Steven Wills: Dive into the anatomy of naval strategy and its crucial role in shaping the Navy’s future.

Episode 2: Dr. Bruce Jones: Explore the historical and global significance of maritime power, analyzing its past and present dynamics.

Episode 3: Dr. Sam Tangredi: Journey into the realm of AI and its transformative impact on naval warfare, examining its ethical, legal, and strategic implications.

Episode 4: Dr. Scott Savitz: Navigate the cutting edge with non-lethal weapons and uncrewed platforms, understanding their potential risks and strategic advantages.

Episode 5: Bryan Clark: Venture into the technological horizon of naval warfare, exploring emerging technologies’ integration challenges and strategic impact.

Episode 6: Seth Cropsey: Grapple with contemporary naval challenges, dissecting global rivalries and strategic insights for a comprehensive understanding.

Episode 7: Jon Rennie: Conclude the series with Jon Rennie, focusing on the crucial elements of leadership, culture, and the balance between tradition and modernization within the Navy.

Whether you’re a seasoned naval buff or just starting your exploration, this series offers valuable insights for anyone who cares about the future of American naval power.

Don’t wait! Dive into “Charting the Course” today and share your journey with friends and family. Together, we can chart a course for a secure and prosperous future.

Sincerely,

The Americans for a Stronger Navy Team

P.S. Visit https://strongernavy.org/category/charting-the-course/ for detailed episode descriptions and more information.

Don’t wait! Dive into “Charting the Course” today and share your journey with friends and family. Together, we can chart a course for a secure and prosperous future. Follow the link below and happy watching, reading and listening.

All Episodes Available Now! Dive Deep into the Future of Naval Power with “Charting the Course” Americans for a Stronger Navy Team

P.S. Visit https://strongernavy.org/category/charting-the-course/ for detailed episode descriptions and more information.

Posted on

Honoring Dan Maloney with Lifetime Achievement Award

Bill Cullifer, founder

When: February, 12, 2024 at 1:00 pm.

Where: Pearl Harbor, HI

Today in Honolulu, I have the honor of presenting an award to Dan Maloney, a distinguished U.S. Navy veteran whose life embodies the Navy’s spirit and values. His likeness, immortalized in the Lone Sailor statue, symbolizes the courage, dedication, and sacrifices of sailors across naval history. This ceremony celebrates not only his remarkable journey but also his invaluable contributions to our naval heritage.

We are honored to recognize Dan Maloney for his outstanding service and dedication. His journey encapsulates the essence of resilience, commitment, and patriotism. Presenting this award at the Lone Sailor statue, a landmark of profound significance, adds a layer of depth to this already meaningful occasion.

The ceremony will be a small, intimate gathering with close friends and members of the local community. It will feature a personal tribute to Dan Maloney’s exceptional naval career and the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award. This event is not just a recognition of Mr. Maloney’s remarkable service but is also a symbol of the enduring spirit and dedication inherent to all who have served in the Navy.

For further details about the event, please contact Bill Cullifer #strongernavy on Twitter.

Americans for a Stronger Navy is a community-driven, membership-supported organization committed to promoting the strength and readiness of the U.S. Navy. Our mission is to educate the public and policymakers on the critical importance of a powerful Navy for America’s security and to advocate for policies that bolster the Navy’s capacity to face the dynamic challenges of today’s global security landscape.

Posted on

Americans for a Stronger Navy: Leading the Charge in Navy Recruitment with New Senior Advisor

Empowering Naval Recruitment: Introducing Our New Senior Advisor

Eryck P. Stamper, ITCS(SW/AW/EXW) USN ret.


Americans for a Stronger Navy is excited to welcome a distinguished new member to our ranks. Eryck P. Stamper, ITCS(SW/AW/EXW) USN ret., has stepped into the volunteer role of Senior Advisor for Navy Recruitment Initiatives.

As a retired U.S. Navy veteran with 23 years of commendable service, Eryck brings a treasure trove of experience and dedication to our mission.

In response to the pressing recruitment challenges confronting the U.S. Navy, Americans for a Stronger Navy, a dedicated non-profit group, is delighted to welcome an esteemed new addition to our team. This individual will be focused on conducting a thorough study and providing the Navy with insightful results and recommendations.

Hailing originally from Baltimore, Maryland, and now making his home in Fairview, West Virginia, Eryck’s notable service includes deployments in pivotal operations such as Desert Shield/Storm and Iraqi/Enduring Freedom (OEF/OIF), alongside a host of humanitarian missions.

His impactful service concluded with an honorable retirement as a Senior Chief Petty Officer in October 2013, leaving behind a legacy of significant contributions to the Navy and the broader military community. Eryck’s commitment to service members continues in his civilian life through his role as Veterans Outreach Coordinator for Mission Beelieve, and his active involvement as Vice Commander American Legion and a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars. His founding of Veterans Initiative 22 further highlights his dedication to the welfare of our nation’s veterans.

With the Navy currently experiencing a recruitment shortfall of over 10% against its annual target, Eryck’s insights and strategic approach are more vital than ever. He joins an advisory group at Americans for a Stronger Navy, comprised of former Navy personnel, industry experts, and dedicated stakeholders, all united in their mission to confront and overcome the challenges of recruitment and retention. This team will explore a range of factors influencing recruitment, from public perception to the tangible benefits of naval service.

Bill Cullifer, the founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, stresses the critical nature of this initiative:

“The wisdom and experience of our veterans are crucial in our efforts to motivate the future generation of sailors. With Eryck’s seasoned leadership and profound expertise at the helm, we are poised to reinforce the Navy’s strength, readiness, and capability.”

The advisory group is committed to conducting an in-depth analysis to identify effective strategies for meeting and surpassing recruitment objectives. The outcome of this endeavor will be shared with Navy leadership and the public, aiming to spark a wider conversation on strategies to bolster the Navy’s strength and capacity.

We are immensely privileged to have Eryck Stamper participation in helping the organization to guide its recruitment efforts. His fervent passion, extensive expertise, and steadfast commitment to service promise to be instrumental in enhancing our recruitment initiatives and ensuring a formidable future for the U.S. Navy.

Posted on

Charting the Course: Navigating Leadership Seas – From Submarine Command to Corporate Vision

Welcome to ‘Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power’.

Today, we’re delighted to have Jon S. Rennie, a notable leader in both the naval and business worlds. 

Jon is the Co-Founder, President & CEO of Peak Demand Inc., a leading manufacturer of critical components for electrical utilities, and a former U.S. Navy Nuclear Submarine Officer who served during the crucial period of the Cold War’s final stages.

With his extensive experience from seven deployments on nuclear submarines to leading eight manufacturing businesses for three global companies, 

Jon brings a unique perspective to leadership. He is the author of best-selling leadership books like

 “I Have the Watch: Becoming a Leader Worth Following” 

and “All in the Same Boat: Lead Your Organization Like a Nuclear Submariner,” and he slso hosts the Deep Leadership podcast. 

Jon’s core belief is that leadership is a pivotal force that can significantly enhance any organization’s performance.

In our discussion, Jon will share insights on how his experiences in the Navy and the industrial sector have molded his leadership philosophy.

 We’ll delve into the key leadership principles he advocates, and how they’re applicable to the dynamic challenges faced by the Navy today.

Discussion Points:

The Intersection of Naval and Industrial Leadership: Jon will explore how his naval career and industrial business ventures have influenced his leadership style and philosophy.

Principles of Effective Leadership: We’ll discuss the core principles and practices Jon teaches in his books and their relevance to the evolving context of the Navy in the 21st century.

Submarine Culture vs. Corporate Culture: Jon will compare and contrast these two distinct cultures, providing valuable lessons that could bolster America’s efforts to strengthen the Navy.

The Importance of a Strong Navy: We’ll delve into why a robust Navy is crucial for U.S. national security, economic prosperity, and global leadership, assessing the main challenges and opportunities ahead.

Supporting and Strengthening the Navy: Jon will offer his perspective on how we can bolster our Navy and the roles that different sectors of society play in this vital endeavor.

Join us as we navigate through Jon’s profound insights into leadership, drawing from his rich experiences in the depths of the ocean and the heights of corporate success, charting a course for a resilient and powerful future for the American Naval Power.

Posted on

How an Advisory Group of Volunteers Aims to Boost Navy Recruitment: A Report by Americans for a Stronger Navy

US Navy recruitment is facing a serious problem. According to the latest data from the Department of Defense, the Navy is falling short of its annual goal of enlisting 40,000 new sailors by more than 10%. This shortfall could have negative impacts on the Navy’s readiness, capability, and morale.

To address this challenge, a group of volunteers from Americans for a Stronger Navy, a non-profit organization that advocates for a robust and modern naval force, has formed an advisory group to study the current issues and make recommendations for improving Navy recruitment. The advisory group consists of former Navy personnel, employers experts, and stakeholders who have a keen interest and knowledge of the Navy and its mission.

“As the founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I believe that the best way to improve Navy recruitment is to listen to the voices of those who have served. They have the experience, the knowledge, and the passion to help us find and inspire the next generation of sailors. We cannot afford to be passive or complacent in this matter. We need to act now and act decisively to ensure the Navy’s future.” Bill Cullifer 

The advisory group will conduct a analysis of the factors that affect Navy recruitment, such as public perception, incentives, eligibility, retention, and benefits. Based on their findings, the group will propose a set of actionable and realistic recommendations that could possibly help the Navy attract, recruit, and retain the best and brightest talent for its ranks.

The advisory group will present its report to the Navy leadership and the public by the end of the year. The report will also be available on the StrongerNavy.org website and social media platforms. The advisory group hopes that its report will contribute to the ongoing efforts to strengthen the Navy and ensure its readiness and relevance for the future.

In light of the challenges facing Navy recruitment, we at Americans for a Stronger Navy are extending a call to action. We invite individuals passionate about naval strength and security to join our cause. Whether you are a former service member with invaluable insights, a professional with skills that can aid our mission, or a citizen eager to support a stronger Navy, your contribution is crucial. By volunteering for our advisory group or participating in our initiatives, you can help shape the strategies that will ensure the Navy remains a formidable, well-staffed force for the future. Let’s unite to inspire a new wave of sailors ready to serve with honor, courage, and commitment. For more information on how you can get involved, visit our website at StrongerNavy.org or reach out to us through our social media channels. Together, we can make a significant impact.

Posted on

Securing Global Trade: The Critical Role of Naval Power in the Red Sea

Introduction

The Importance of a Strong Maritime Presence

Bill Cullifer, Founder

The recent actions in the Red Sea underscore the indispensable role of naval power in ensuring the security of international waterways. The coalition’s efforts to disrupt Houthi capabilities demonstrate the importance of maintaining a formidable maritime presence to protect global trade routes and uphold international maritime law.

The Need for a Stronger Navy

The challenges faced in the Red Sea highlight the ongoing need for a stronger navy, capable of projecting power, deterring aggression, and safeguarding the principles of freedom of navigation upon which global commerce depends. A robust U.S. naval force is not just a pillar of national defense; it’s a cornerstone of global stability and economic prosperity.

Why This Matters

The Red Sea is a strategic chokepoint in global trade, connecting the Mediterranean Sea through the Suez Canal to the Indian Ocean via the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Any disruption in this area can have significant repercussions on global trade, energy supplies, and economic stability. The recent increase in Houthi attacks on commercial and naval vessels not only poses a direct threat to those at sea but also undermines international maritime law and global security.

Joint International Response

In a concerted effort to protect shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, the U.S. and the U.K., alongside Australia, Bahrain, Denmark, Canada, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, executed precision strikes on 36 Houthi targets across 13 locations in Yemen. This action was a direct response to over 30 attacks by the Houthis on maritime vessels since mid-November.

Targeted Strikes for Maritime Security

The coalition’s strikes focused on degrading the Houthis’ ability to launch further attacks, targeting their weapons storage, missile systems, launchers, air defense systems, and radars. These measures are crucial for disrupting the Houthis’ capabilities, thereby ensuring the safety of international and commercial vessels traversing the Red Sea.

Ensuring Freedom of Navigation

The importance of these operations extends beyond immediate security concerns, aiming to preserve the principle of freedom of navigation. The recent actions, including the defensive strike against a Houthi anti-ship cruise missile and the engagement of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by U.S. forces, underscore the coalition’s commitment to maintaining open and safe international waterways.

Why Americans Should Care

The security of the Red Sea affects not just regional stability but also has direct implications for the United States. A significant portion of global trade, including energy supplies, passes through this region. Ensuring its security directly supports the U.S. economy and global standing. Moreover, these operations highlight the value of international partnerships and the U.S.’s role in leading and supporting global security initiatives.

Conclusion

The recent coalition strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen represent a critical step in ensuring the security of the Red Sea and, by extension, the stability of global trade routes. It is a stark reminder of the importance of naval power and international cooperation in addressing global challenges. As Americans, recognizing and supporting our nation’s efforts in these endeavors is essential for our national and economic security.

Posted on

Dr. Steven Wills Appointed to Advisory Board of Americans for A Stronger Navy

Steven Wills

The Americans for A Stronger Navy organization is honored to welcome Dr. Steven Wills, a distinguished navalist, historian, and former U.S. naval officer, to its Advisory Board. With over 30 years of experience in surface warfare, naval strategy, and national security, Dr. Wills brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the organization.

Dr. Wills’ notable contributions to naval history and strategy, including his significant works “Strategy Shelved” and “Where are the Carriers?”, co-authored with former Navy Secretary John Lehman, showcase his deep understanding of naval power and its evolution. His frequent contributions to esteemed publications such as the U.S. Naval War College Review and U.S. Naval Institute News further highlight his expertise and commitment to advancing the field of naval studies.

As we continue to explore the future of American naval power through our podcast series “Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power,” and the webinar series “Wings of Victory: How Naval Aviators Transformed WWII from Battleships to the Skies,” Dr. Wills’ insights will be invaluable. His perspective on the importance of a robust and forward-thinking naval strategy aligns perfectly with our mission to champion a stronger navy and advocate for peace through strength.

Reflecting on his appointment, Dr. Wills stated, “Joining Americans for A Stronger Navy offers an exciting opportunity to leverage historical naval strategies to address contemporary challenges. It is essential for our generation to understand and apply the lessons learned from past naval engagements to ensure a formidable naval force for the future.”

About Americans for A Stronger Navy:

Founded by Bill Cullifer, Americans for A Stronger Navy is dedicated to advocating for a robust naval force and promoting peace through strength. The organization emphasizes the importance of learning from historical naval strategies to build a stronger future.

About Dr. Steven Wills:

Naval historian, author, and former U.S. naval officer, Dr. Steven Wills has over three decades of experience in surface warfare, naval strategy, and national security. His work, including “Strategy Shelved” and “Where are the Carriers?”, provides critical insights into the development and implementation of effective U.S. Navy strategies.

For further inquiries or to arrange an interview with Dr. Steven Wills, please contact:

Bill Cullifer, founder of Americans for A Stronger Navy at the contact us page.

Posted on

Safeguarding the Red Sea: US Navy Secures Vital Trade Lanes for America and the World

USS Laboon (DDG 58) a guided-missile destroyer

The Red Sea, a vital artery for global trade, faces increasing threats from Houthi rebels in Yemen. These threats put millions of tons of cargo and countless innocent lives at risk. However, the US Navy, through its unwavering commitment and advanced capabilities, stands as a guardian of this critical waterway.

Houthi Escalation and US Response:

  • Recent Attacks: The Houthis have intensified attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, raising concerns about maritime security and economic stability. These attacks threaten the free flow of trade, impacting vital resources like food and fuel.
  • US-UK Strikes: In response, the US and UK launched precision strikes against Houthi targets associated with missile and surveillance capabilities. These actions, conducted with support from allies, aimed to disrupt Houthi attacks and deter future aggression.
  • USS Laboon, USS Carney (DDG-64) and USS Gravely (DDG-107) and F/A-18 Super Hornets: At the forefront of this mission stands the USS Laboon and USS Carney (DDG-64) and USS Gravely (DDG-107), a guided-missile destroyers patrolling the Red Sea alongside F/A-18 Super Hornets from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. These powerful assets demonstrate the US Navy’s commitment to regional security and freedom of navigation.
  • Guided-missile destroyers USS Carney (DDG-64) and USS Gravely, (DDG-107) fired an unspecified number of Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles at the Houthi targets in Yemen while the Super Hornets used Joint Direct Attack Munition against the targets according to U.S. Centcom.

Key Takeaways:

  • Heightened Tensions: The Red Sea remains a volatile region with ongoing threats from the Houthis. Continued vigilance and proactive measures are crucial to ensure the safety of maritime traffic.
  • US Leadership: The US Navy plays a pivotal role in maintaining regional stability and safeguarding global trade. Its presence and robust capabilities deter adversaries and assure allies.
  • Multifaceted Approach: Addressing the complex situation in the Red Sea requires a multifaceted approach. The US Navy’s actions go hand-in-hand with diplomatic efforts and partnerships to de-escalate tensions and find lasting solutions.

Why America Should Care:

  • Economic Security: The Red Sea carries approximately 10% of the world’s trade, including vital resources for the US and its allies. Disruptions to this trade route could have significant economic consequences.
  • National Security: A secure Red Sea is crucial for US national security interests. Unimpeded maritime trade ensures the timely delivery of military supplies and facilitates cooperation with regional partners.
  • Global Stability: The US Navy’s role in the Red Sea contributes to international security and stability. A peaceful and navigable Red Sea benefits all nations reliant on this critical waterway.

Conclusion:

The US Navy’s presence in the Red Sea is not just a symbol of American strength, but a commitment to global security and prosperity. Through its advanced capabilities, unwavering resolve, and partnerships, the Navy safeguards vital trade routes and protects innocent lives. As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we recognize and appreciate the dedication of our sailors and the critical role they play in securing the Red Sea for America and the world.

Posted on

Charting the Course – How to Secure America’s Naval Supremacy from Dr. Seth Cropsey.

Welcome to Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power’ a podcast series that dives into the past, present, and future of the U.S. Navy and its impact on the world.

Today, we are honored to welcome Dr. Seth Cropsey, a distinguished former U.S. Naval officer, political figure, author, scholar, and President of the Yorktown Institute. Dr. Cropsey comes to us with a wealth of experience in naval policy and history, having served as a U.S. Naval officer and a former U.S. Department of Defense official. He is the author of pivotal works such as “Mayday: The Decline of American Naval Supremacy” and “Seablindness: How Political Neglect is Choking American Seapower and What to Do About It”.

 His expertise is frequently sought after in esteemed publications and media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, Foreign Affairs, and The National Interest, among others.

My co-host Dale and I have previously laid the groundwork by introducing key themes and objectives of our series, including an in-depth conversation with Dr. Steven Wills, a respected naval historian and former U.S. Naval officer, in our episode ‘Developing and Implementing Effective U.S. Navy Strategies’ and Dr. Sam Tangredi, the esteemed Leidos Chair of Future Warfare Studies and Director of the Institute for Future Warfare Studies at the U.S. Naval War College. and Dr. Bruce Jones, Senior Fellow – Foreign Policy, Center for East Asia Policy Studies, Strobe Talbott Center for Security, Strategy, and Technology, Brookings Institution. – Maritime Power Through History and Future – January 4, 2025. Dr. Scott Savitz, a renowned senior engineer at the RAND Corporation.

In this episode, Dr. Cropsey will offer his expert insights on how to secure America’s naval supremacy, a subject that is paramount for our national security, economic prosperity, and global leadership. Building on the themes introduced in our series, such as effective U.S. Navy strategies and the historical and future significance of maritime power, Dr. Cropsey’s perspectives will deepen our understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the U.S. Navy today.

Drawing from his extensive background, Dr. Cropsey will discuss the importance of a stronger Navy in the face of global challenges and the strategies needed to ensure America remains a dominant maritime power. His analysis will cover the critical areas of naval readiness, innovation, and the significance of fostering strong alliances and partnerships, particularly in key strategic regions.

Posted on

US Warship Narrowly Averts Houthi Missile Threat in Red Sea

USS Gravely (DDG 107) sailing in the Arabian Gulf December, 2023

In a concerning development confirmed by the United States Central Command (USCENTCOM), Iranian-backed Houthi militants launched an anti-ship cruise missile towards the Red Sea on January 30, 2024, at approximately 11:30 p.m. Sanaa time. This aggressive action targeted the USS Gravely (DDG 107), a guided-missile destroyer conducting operations in the area. The swift and effective response of the USS Gravely’s advanced defensive systems successfully intercepted and neutralized the missile, averting any potential harm to the vessel and its crew.

This incident brings to light the persistent threats posed by Houthi militants to naval operations and the safety of commercial shipping in the Red Sea, an essential corridor for international trade. The employment of sophisticated weaponry by the Houthis, supported by Iran, marks a notable escalation in regional security challenges, emphasizing the need for continuous vigilance and readiness among naval forces.

The Americans for a Stronger Navy applauds the professionalism and adeptness of the USS Gravely’s crew in addressing this immediate threat. Such events underscore the vital necessity of sustaining a potent and technologically superior navy to safeguard against unprovoked hostilities.

However, this episode also highlights a critical issue facing our naval forces: the challenge of maintaining a sufficient number of ships to support routine deployments, manage crisis situations like the one in the Red Sea, and provide necessary downtime for maintenance, repairs, and training for both ships and sailors. The current operational demands on our fleet reveal a stark reality—we have too few ships to fulfill our global commitments and respond effectively to emergent crises.

To address this gap, the Americans for a Stronger Navy is advocating for the expansion of our fleet. Building a larger navy would enable a more flexible and resilient rotational deployment cycle, ensuring that we can meet both routine and crisis-driven operational demands while also prioritizing the well-being and readiness of our ships and their crews.

As we continue to monitor the evolving situation, we urge the public to grasp the importance of these incidents and the critical role played by the US Navy in securing maritime pathways against adversarial actions. The Americans for a Stronger Navy is dedicated to championing policies and allocating resources that bolster our naval capabilities, ensuring the safety and security of international waters.

We stand in solidarity with our naval servicemembers, who confront these perils with unwavering bravery and commitment, and we reiterate our support for their mission to safeguard our nation’s security and ensure the unimpeded flow of commerce across the globe’s oceans.

Source:  https://www.centcom.mil/MEDIA/PRESS-RELEASES/Press-Release-View/Article/3661354/houthis-fire-anti-ship-cruise-missile-toward-red-sea/