Author: Robert Luster

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How a US Navy veteran helped his former Iranian prison mate escape to freedom

Michael White (left) meets Brian Hook, the U.S. special envoy for Iran, in Zurich, Switzerland, after White’s release from detention in Iran.

By Mark Roberts

Hello, fellow Americans. I’m a proud member of the Americans for a Stronger Navy, a group that advocates for a robust and well-equipped naval force to protect our nation’s interests and values. Today, I want to share with you a remarkable story of courage, friendship, and gratitude that involves a Navy veteran and an Iranian political activist who met in an Iranian prison. This story shows the resilience and compassion of our sailors, the plight of political prisoners in Iran, and the need for diplomatic efforts to secure the release of Americans detained abroad.

Michael White: A Navy veteran who was jailed in Iran for several years on spying charges

Michael White is a Navy veteran who served in the Persian Gulf War and later worked as a cook for the Department of Veterans Affairs. In July 2018, he traveled to Iran to visit his girlfriend in Mashhad, a city in northeastern Iran. He was arrested by Iranian authorities on vague charges of espionage and insulting the country’s supreme leader. He was interrogated, beaten, isolated, denied medical care, and threatened with execution. He spent nearly two years in Iran’s notorious Vakilabad prison, where he contracted COVID-19 and suffered from cancer.

Mahdi Vatankhah: An Iranian political activist who befriended White and helped him survive

Mahdi Vatankhah is an Iranian political activist who was also imprisoned in Iran for his involvement in anti-government protests in 2017. He was sentenced to 11 years in prison for “spreading propaganda against the system” and “insulting the supreme leader”. He was tortured, starved, and forced to confess on state television. He met White in Vakilabad prison and became his friend and protector. He helped White communicate with his family and survive the harsh conditions of the prison. He provided White’s mother with crucial, firsthand accounts about her son’s status in prison and passed along letters White had written while he was locked up. He also taught White some Farsi and shared his dreams of freedom and democracy.
How White was released in June 2020 as part of a prisoner swap deal between Iran and the US
In June 2020, White was released from Iran as part of a prisoner swap deal between Iran and the US. The deal involved the exchange of White for Majid Taheri, an Iranian-American doctor who had been held in the US for violating sanctions on Iran. White was flown to Switzerland, where he was greeted by US officials and reunited with his family. He thanked President Joe Biden and his administration for securing his release and expressed his gratitude to Vatankhah for saving his life.

How White helped Vatankhah flee Iran and come to the US

White did not forget Vatankhah’s kindness and friendship. He pushed successfully this year for Vatankhah’s admission to the US, allowing the men to be reunited last spring, something neither could have envisioned when they first met in prison years earlier. White contacted Jonathan Franks, a consultant in the US for families of American hostages and detainees, who helped him lobby the State Department and other agencies to grant Vatankhah a humanitarian parole visa. Vatankhah managed to escape from Iran with the help of smugglers and made his way to Turkey, where he waited for several months until he received his visa. He arrived at Los Angeles International Airport on June 1, 2023, where he was warmly welcomed by White and Franks.

Why this story matters

This story matters because it demonstrates the values of honor, courage, and commitment that are instilled in every sailor who serves our country with dignity and bravery. White showed honor by staying loyal to his friend and helping him escape from tyranny. He showed courage by enduring unimaginable hardships and never giving up hope. He showed commitment by fulfilling his promise to Vatankhah and bringing him to safety.

This story also matters because it illustrates the human rights violations and repression that are rampant in Iran, where thousands of political prisoners are languishing in jails without due process or fair trials. Vatankhah’s story is one of many that expose the brutality of the Iranian regime and its disregard for basic freedoms and dignity.

Finally, this story matters because it underscores the importance of diplomacy and negotiation to secure the freedom of Americans who are unjustly detained in foreign countries. The prisoner swap deal that led to White’s release was a result of months of behind-the-scenes talks between US and Iranian officials, facilitated by Switzerland as a neutral mediator. The humanitarian parole visa that allowed Vatankhah to come to the US was a result of persistent advocacy by White, Franks, and other supporters, who appealed to the humanitarian and moral values of the US government.

Conclusion

I hope this story has inspired you and moved you as much as it has me. I admire and thank White and Vatankhah for their courage, friendship, and gratitude. I also thank and salute all the American sailors who serve our country with honor, courage, and commitment. They are the reason why we need a stronger Navy to defend our nation and our allies.

I urge you to support the Americans for a Stronger Navy group, which works to educate the public and policymakers about the vital role of the Navy in ensuring our security and prosperity. I also urge you to advocate for human rights and democracy in Iran, where millions of people are suffering under a repressive regime. And I urge you to demand the release of other Americans who are still held hostage by Iran or other hostile regimes, such as Siamak Namazi, Baquer Namazi, Morad Tahbaz, Emad Shargi, and Kylie Moore-Gilbert.
Thank you for your attention and support.

Please feel free to comment or share your thoughts on this blog post. God bless America and God bless our Navy.

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The Plumb Line: Lessons from a Navy Fighter Pilot and POW

Captain Charles Plumb, USN

Hello, members and subscribers of the Americans for a Stronger Navy.

Today, we want to share with you a remarkable story of courage, resilience, and wisdom. It is the story of Captain Charles Plumb, US Navy fighter pilot, prisoner of war during the Vietnam War and inspirational leader. His story is a testament to the spirit and values of our Navy and our nation. Here is his story:

Captain Plumb was a young man who dreamed of flying. He grew up on a farm in Kansas, where he watched the planes soar in the sky and imagined himself in the cockpit. He worked hard to achieve his goal, and graduated from the Naval Academy at Annapolis. He became a fighter pilot, flying the F-4 Phantom jet, one of the most advanced aircraft of its time. He joined the elite program that would later be known as “TOP GUN”, where he honed his skills and earned the respect of his peers.

He was sent to Vietnam, where he flew 74 successful combat missions over enemy territory. He was proud to serve his country and defend freedom. He was confident in his abilities and his plane. He was looking forward to returning home to his wife and family, who were waiting for him with love and gratitude.

But fate had other plans for him. On his 75th mission, just five days before he was due to go home, his plane was hit by a surface-to-air missile. He ejected and parachuted into enemy hands. He was captured, tortured, and imprisoned in a small cell. He spent the next 2,103 days as a prisoner of war in communist Vietnam.

He faced unimaginable hardships and horrors. He endured hunger, pain, isolation, humiliation, and despair. He witnessed the death and suffering of his fellow prisoners. He was tempted to give up hope and surrender to his captors.

But he did not. He fought back with courage and resilience. He used his ingenuity and creativity to communicate with other POWs through a secret code. He used his faith and optimism to inspire and comfort others. He used his humor and wit to cope with the absurdity and cruelty of his situation. He used his memory and imagination to escape from his cell and fly again in his mind.

He survived the ordeal and returned home as a hero. He received many honors and awards for his service and sacrifice. He wrote books and gave speeches about his experience and the lessons he learned from it. He shared his wisdom and insights with thousands of people from all walks of life. He helped others overcome their challenges and achieve their dreams.

He lived what he believed to be the American Dream. He was a farm kid from Kansas who became a fighter pilot, a prisoner of war, a motivational speaker, and a legend.

This is the true story of Charles Plumb , a man who faced adversity with bravery, dignity, and grace. A man who never gave up on himself or his country. A man who exemplifies the spirit of a stronger Navy.

As he said in one of his speeches: “The challenge is not to survive, but to come out of the experience with your honor, dignity, and self-respect intact.”

We hope you enjoyed this story as much as we did. We think it is an inspiring example of how our navy can overcome any obstacle and achieve any goal. We also think it is a reminder of why we need to support our Navy and its mission of protecting our security and prosperity in all domains.

We thank you for your attention and support. he Americans for a Stronger Navy team

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The USS LST-325: A World War II Landing Ship Tank with a Remarkable History

USS LST-325

Hello, and thank you for reading our blog post for the Americans for a Stronger Navy.

We are a group of patriotic citizens who support and appreciate the U.S. Navy and its mission to protect our nation and its interests around the world. In this blog post, we want to share with you some facts and trivia about the USS LST-325, a World War II landing ship tank that recently arrived in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

What is the USS LST-325?

The USS LST-325 is a decommissioned tank landing ship of the U.S. Navy, now docked in Evansville, Indiana, as a museum ship. It is the last operational LST of its class, and one of the few remaining World War II ships that participated in the D-Day landings at Normandy. LST stands for Landing Ship, Tank, which means it could carry tanks, vehicles, cargo, and troops directly onto shore without the need for docks or piers. The USS LST-325 was launched on October 27, 1942 at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and commissioned on February 1, 1943 under Lt. Ira Ehrensall, USNR. 

What did the USS LST-325 do during World War II?

The USS LST-325 was a vital part of the Allied amphibious operations in Europe and Africa during World War II. It operated in the North Africa area and participated in the invasions at Gela, Sicily and Salerno, Italy. On June 6, 1944, it was part of the largest armada in history by participating in the Normandy landings at Omaha Beach. It carried 59 vehicles, 30 officers and a total of 396 enlisted men on that first trip. On its first trip back to England from France, it transported 38 casualties back to a friendly port. Over the next nine months, Navy records show it made more than 40 trips across the English Channel, carrying thousands of men and pieces of equipment needed by troops to successfully complete the liberation of Europe. 

The USS LST-325 also served as a hospital ship, returning wounded soldiers back to England from the beaches of Normandy. It was originally known as LST-325 during World War II, USNS LST-325 during its arctic operations in the 1950s, and later L-144 (A/G Syros) while it was in service of the Greek Navy. 

How did the USS LST-325 become a museum ship?

The USS LST-325 was decommissioned in 1946 and stricken from the Naval Vessel Register in 1961. It was transferred to Greece in 1964 and served as RHS Syros (L-144) until 1999. It was sold to a group of U.S. veterans in 2000 who sailed it back to the United States from Crete in a voyage that lasted 13 weeks and covered 6,500 miles. The ship was renamed M/V LST-325 and docked in Mobile, Alabama until 2005 when it moved to its current homeport of Evansville, Indiana. In 2004, it was granted permission by the U.S. Navy to use its original name again as USS LST-325. In 2009, it was listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. 

The USS LST-325 is now a floating museum that offers tours and cruises to visitors who want to learn more about its history and legacy. It also participates in various events and festivals around the country to honor and educate veterans and civilians alike. Each year, it sails for five weeks to give people a chance to see its historical impact nationwide.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed this blog post about the USS LST-325 and learned something new and interesting about this remarkable ship and its role in World War II. We also hope you feel inspired and motivated to support our Navy and its efforts to protect our nation and our allies. We thank you for reading this blog post and for following #AmericansforaStrongerNavy. Please leave your comments below or contact us if you have any questions or feedback. Stay safe and stay Navy!

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How does the U.S. Navy respond to the Russia-China alliance?

Image IconForeign Minister Tobias Billström, background, listens, during a press briefing together with US congressmen Michael McCaul, centre and Gregory Meeks, in Stockholm, Friday, Sept. 1, 2023. The United States House Foreign Affairs chair says that a partnership of the Russian and Chinese leaders worries him, saying: “We have never seen a threat this large-scale to Europe and the Pacific, I would argue, since World War II.” Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, said Friday during a trip to Sweden with a U.S. Congressional Delegation that an alliance of Beijing and Moscow poses a big challenges to the free world. (Henrik Montgomery/TT News Agency via AP)
The Associated Press

Hello, and welcome to the blog of the Americans for a Stronger Navy. 

We are a group of patriotic citizens who support and appreciate the U.S. Navy and its mission to protect our nation and its interests around the world. 

In this blog, we will share with you news, stories, facts, and opinions about the Navy and its amazing ships and sailors.

Today, we want to talk about a recent development that caught our attention: the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee chair calling the Russia-China alliance the biggest threat since World War II. This is a serious and alarming statement that reflects the growing challenges and dangers that our Navy and our allies face in the global arena.

What did the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee chair say?

The U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee chair is Rep. Michael McCaul, a Republican from Texas. He made his remarks during a visit to Sweden on September 1, 2023, where he met with the Swedish foreign minister and other officials. He was part of a U.S. congressional delegation that also visited the Netherlands and discussed issues such as support for NATO and Ukraine, ways to hold Russia accountable for its actions in Ukraine, and how to confront shared threats from China.

McCaul said that a partnership between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin worried him, adding, “We have never seen a threat this large scale to Europe and the Pacific, I would argue, since World War II.” He said that an alliance between Beijing and Moscow poses a big challenge for the free world in this great power competition that we find ourselves in.

Why is the Russia-China alliance a threat?

The Russia-China alliance is a threat because it combines two authoritarian regimes that have aggressive and expansionist ambitions in their respective regions and beyond. Both countries have been violating international norms and rules, undermining democratic values and human rights, and challenging the U.S. and its allies’ interests and security.

Some examples of their threatening behavior are:

•  Russia’s invasion and annexation of Crimea in 2014, its ongoing support for separatists in eastern Ukraine, its cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns against Western countries, its interference in elections and political processes, its military buildup and provocations near NATO borders, its use of chemical weapons against dissidents, and its development of new nuclear weapons and hypersonic missiles.

China’s militarization of disputed islands and reefs in the South China Sea, its coercion and intimidation of neighboring countries over maritime claims, its violation of Taiwan’s airspace and sovereignty, its crackdown on Hong Kong’s autonomy and democracy, its genocide against Uyghurs and other minorities in Xinjiang, its theft of intellectual property and trade secrets from Western companies, its suppression of free speech and dissent at home and abroad, and its rapid modernization of its military capabilities and space program.

The Russia-China alliance is also a threat because it enables both countries to support each other economically, politically, diplomatically, militarily, and technologically. They have increased their cooperation in various fields such as energy, trade, infrastructure, defense, security, intelligence, science, innovation, culture, media, education, health, and environment. They have also coordinated their positions on global issues such as Iran’s nuclear program, North Korea’s nuclear weapons, Syria’s civil war, Venezuela’s crisis, Myanmar’s coup, Afghanistan’s situation, climate change, human rights, multilateralism, and reform of international institutions.

The Russia-China alliance is especially a threat because it challenges the U.S.-led international order that has maintained peace and stability since World War II. They seek to undermine the credibility and effectiveness of NATO, the European Union, the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, the World Health Organization, and other organizations that promote cooperation and dialogue among nations. They also seek to create alternative blocs and platforms that serve their interests and values such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), the BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) group

How does the Navy respond to the Russia-China alliance?

The Navy is well aware of the threat posed by the Russia-China alliance and is taking various measures to counter it and protect our interests and allies. Some of these measures are:

•  Strengthening our alliances and partnerships with like-minded countries that share our values and vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific and a secure and prosperous Europe. The Navy conducts regular exercises, operations, exchanges, and consultations with our allies and partners to enhance our interoperability, coordination, and cooperation. Some examples of these activities are the Malabar naval exercise with India, Japan, and Australia; the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise with 26 nations; the Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) exercise with 18 NATO and partner nations; the Sea Breeze exercise with Ukraine and 31 other nations; the Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs) in the South China Sea; and the Enhanced Forward Presence (EFP) in Eastern Europe.

•  Increasing our presence and readiness in the regions where Russia and China are most active and assertive. The Navy deploys its ships, aircraft, submarines, and personnel to strategic locations such as Japan, Guam, Bahrain, Spain, Italy, Romania, Poland, Norway, and Iceland. The Navy also rotates its assets through temporary deployments such as the Carrier Strike Group (CSG), the Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), the Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG), and the Surface Action Group (SAG). The Navy also maintains a continuous nuclear deterrent patrol with its ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and a global undersea dominance with its attack submarines (SSNs).

•  Modernizing our capabilities and platforms to match or exceed those of Russia and China. The Navy invests in research, development, acquisition, and innovation of new technologies, systems, weapons, and concepts that will give us an edge over our adversaries. Some examples of these initiatives are the Columbia-class SSBN program, the Constellation-class frigate program, the F-35C Lightning II fighter jet program, the MQ-25 Stingray unmanned aerial refueling tanker program, the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) anti-ship cruise missile program, the Hypersonic Glide Body (HGB) weapon system program, the Distributed Maritime Operations (DMO) concept, and the Naval Integrated Fire Control-Counter Air (NIFC-CA) network.

What can we do to support the Navy?

As members and subscribers of #AmericansforaStrongerNavy, we can do many things to support the Navy and its mission to counter the Russia-China alliance. Some of these things are:

•  Educating ourselves and others about the threat posed by the Russia-China alliance and the importance of maintaining a strong and capable Navy. Stay informed by subscribing to the blog and newsletter.  We can also share these sources with our friends, family, colleagues, and social media followers.

•  Advocating for adequate funding and resources for the Navy to sustain its current operations and modernize its future capabilities. We can contact our representatives in Congress and urge them to support the Navy’s budget requests and legislative priorities. We can also sign petitions, join campaigns, attend rallies, write letters, or make phone calls to express our views and opinions.

•  Appreciating and honoring our Navy sailors who serve our country with honor and excellence. We can send them letters, cards, care packages, or donations to show them our gratitude and support. We can also volunteer for organizations that assist Navy families, veterans, or wounded warriors. We can also attend or host events that celebrate or commemorate Navy achievements or milestones.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we hope you learned something new and interesting about the Russia-China alliance and how it affects our Navy and our nation. We also hope you feel inspired and motivated to support our Navy in its efforts to counter this threat and protect our interests and allies. We thank you for reading this blog post and for following #AmericansforaStrongerNavy. Please leave your comments below or contact us if you have any questions or feedback. Stay safe and stay Navy!

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A New Navy Destroyer Is Already Flying a ‘Badass’ Pirate-Inspired Battle Flag

Shown arriving at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, on Aug. 7, 2023, the USS Carl M. Levin was named after a longtime senator from Michigan who championed veterans’ rights. (Lt. Autumn Estrada/U.S. Navy photo)


Hello, fellow Navy supporters and enthusiasts! Today, I want to share with you an amazing story about the newest Navy destroyer, the USS Carl M. Levin, and its unique and awesome battle flag. If you are a fan of pirates, sea monsters, and phoenixes, you will love this story!

Who is the USS Carl M. Levin?
The USS Carl M. Levin is an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer that was commissioned on June 26, 2023, in Baltimore, Maryland. It is the 76th destroyer of its class and the first Navy ship to be named after the late Senator Carl Levin, who served in Congress for 36 years and was a longtime champion of the military and defense affairs. He was also a strong advocate for veterans’ rights, fiscal responsibility, bipartisanship, and the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”. He died in 2021 at age 87.

The USS Carl M. Levin arrived at its homeport of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, on August 7, 2023. It is assigned to the U.S. Pacific Fleet and will conduct missions in support of the U.S. national security interests and the Free and Open Indo-Pacific strategy.

What is the battle flag of the USS Carl M. Levin?
The battle flag of the USS Carl M. Levin is a stunning and striking design that features a fearsome pirate ship, a legendary sea monster, and a mythical phoenix. It was designed by Damage Controlman 3rd Class Hector Mendoza, who was inspired by telling his nieces about his job in the Navy as a pirate. He said he wanted to design a “pretty badass battle flag to display for everyone to see”.

The pirate ship represents the heritage and history of sailing the seven seas as a Navy sailor. The kraken, a large and terrifying sea creature of yore, symbolizes the power and might of the Navy and its ability to destroy any enemy that threatens it. The phoenix, the ship’s mascot, rises out of the destruction, symbolizing how the crew will persevere through any hardships or challenges.

The battle flag also pays tribute to the ship’s namesake and his home state. In the lower left corner, there is an ivory gavel that marks Levin’s 36 years of service in Congress and his role as the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. In the lower right corner, there is the Michigan flag that honors Levin’s home state and his connection to the Great Lakes region.

Why is the battle flag important?
The battle flag is important because it reflects the identity and spirit of the ship and its crew. It shows their pride, courage, resilience, and dedication to their mission and their nation. It also shows their respect and gratitude for their namesake and his legacy. It also adds some flair and fun to their arrival at port.

The battle flag is also part of a growing tradition in the Navy of flying unique and creative flags on newly commissioned warships. Some examples of other Navy warships’ battle flags are:

• The USS John S. McCain flies a flag that features a silhouette of its namesake senator giving a thumbs-up gesture and his motto “Country First”.

• The USS Michael Monsoor flies a flag that depicts a Medal of Honor ribbon and a trident, honoring its namesake Navy SEAL who sacrificed his life to save his teammates in Iraq.

• The USS Rafael Peralta flies a flag that shows a pair of crossed rifles and a helmet with a bullet hole, commemorating its namesake Marine who used his body to shield his comrades from a grenade in Iraq.

• The USS Paul Ignatius flies a flag that displays a pair of crossed swords and a pair of wings, symbolizing its namesake secretary of the Navy’s service as both an Army officer and an Air Force pilot.

What do you think?
I hope you enjoyed this story about the USS Carl M. Levin and its battle flag. I think it is a great example of how the Navy celebrates its history, culture, and heroes through its ships and flags. I also think it is a great way to show our support and appreciation for our Navy sailors who serve our country with honor and excellence.

What do you think? Do you like the design and meaning of the battle flag? Do you have any other favorite Navy warships’ battle flags? Do you have any suggestions or ideas for future battle flags? Please share your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below. I would love to hear from you!

Thank you for reading this blog post and for following #AmericansforaStrongerNavy. Stay tuned for more updates and stories about our Navy and its amazing ships and sailors. Until next time, stay safe and stay Navy!

Source: [Military.com]

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China’s Latest South China Sea Map: A Provocation and a Challenge

China’s Latest S. China Sea Map screen shot from Youtube

As members and subscribers of the Americans for a Stronger Navy, you are well aware of the importance of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region, where the United States and its allies and partners can uphold the rules-based order and protect their national interests.

The South China Sea, a vital waterway for global trade and security, is at the heart of this region.

However, China’s aggressive and expansive claims to sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, as well as its militarization of disputed features, pose a serious threat to the peace and stability of the region, as well as to the freedom of navigation and overflight that the United States and other countries enjoy under international law.

On Monday, August 28, 2023, China released a new map of its infamous U-shaped line, also known as the nine-dash line, that covers about 90% of the South China Sea.

This map, which was published by the Ministry of Natural Resources, is the latest in a series of official maps that China has issued since 1947 to assert its sovereignty over the sea and its islands, reefs, and resources. The map also includes Taiwan, which China considers as a renegade province, and parts of India’s Arunachal Pradesh state, which China claims as part of Tibet.

The map has been met with strong rejection and protest by the other claimants in the South China Sea, namely Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. These countries have their own claims to sovereignty over various features and zones in the sea, based on historical evidence, geographic proximity, or international law.

They have also challenged China’s U-shaped line as baseless and illegal under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which defines the rights and obligations of coastal states in their territorial seas, exclusive economic zones (EEZs), and continental shelves. In 2016, an arbitral tribunal constituted under UNCLOS ruled in favor of the Philippines in its case against China, declaring that China’s U-shaped line had no legal basis and that China had violated the Philippines’ sovereign rights in its EEZ.

China rejected the ruling as null and void and continued to assert its claims and activities in the sea.

The United States, which is not a party to UNCLOS but abides by its provisions as customary international law, has also expressed its opposition to China’s U-shaped line and its actions in the South China Sea.

The United States has declared that it has a national interest in preserving freedom of navigation and overflight in the sea, as well as in supporting its allies and partners in defending their rights and interests.

The United States has also conducted regular freedom of navigation operations (FONOPs) and presence operations in the sea to challenge China’s excessive maritime claims and to demonstrate its commitment to upholding international law.

The United States has also provided diplomatic, legal, and security assistance to the other claimants in the sea to enhance their capabilities and resilience.

The release of China’s new map is not only a provocation to the other claimants in the sea, but also a challenge to the United States and its vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The map shows that China is not willing to compromise or cooperate on resolving the disputes in the sea peacefully and in accordance with international law. Instead, China is determined to impose its will and dominance over the sea and its resources, regardless of the rights and interests of other countries.

The map also shows that China is not deterred by the United States’ presence and actions in the sea, but rather seeks to test and undermine them.

The Americans for a Stronger Navy believes that China’s new map is unacceptable and unacceptable. We urge our government to continue to stand firm against China’s aggression and expansionism in the South China Sea.

We call on our government to increase its diplomatic engagement with our allies and partners in the region to coordinate our responses and strategies. We also call on our government to enhance our naval presence and capabilities in the region to deter further Chinese provocations and to defend our national interests.

We believe that a strong navy is essential for ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.

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Charting the Future: The U.S. Navy’s Bold Move Towards Next-Generation Air Superiority

Courtesy of Northrop Grumman

Introduction:
The seas are vast, and for centuries, their dominance has dictated the fate of nations. Today, naval superiority is not just about mastering the waves but also the skies above them. With the recent announcements regarding the U.S. Navy’s next-generation fighter program, the horizon looks promising. This blog will explore the strides being made in the realm of naval aviation, illuminating how the advancements not only echo the mission of the Americans for a Stronger Navy but also how they stand as a testament to our nation’s commitment to fortifying its defense.

Summary:
The U.S. Navy is ushering in a new era of air dominance with the progression of its secretive next-generation fighter program, now moving from concept refinement to design maturation. With leading aerospace giants vying for contracts, this move signifies a leap towards cutting-edge naval air capabilities, blending technological innovation with robust strategy.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Design Progression: The Navy’s next-gen fighter program has transitioned into the design maturation phase, marking a pivotal step in its development.
  2. Major Contenders: Aerospace stalwarts, including Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman, are contending for the airframe contracts, while GE Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney are eyeing the engine contracts.
  3. Integration with Other Programs: The Navy’s initiative parallels the U.S. Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) platform, hinting at a unified vision for air superiority.
  4. Operational Focus: The F/A-XX program prioritizes operational reach and capacity, suggesting a comprehensive approach to tackle advanced threats from great distances using state-of-the-art weapons and communication systems.
  5. Significant Funding: Highlighting its importance, the Pentagon allocated $11.5 billion for fiscal 2023-27 to the F/A-XX program, making it one of the top research and development priorities.

Conclusion:
In an ever-evolving geopolitical landscape, a stronger Navy is not just desirable, it’s imperative.

As we witness these advancements in naval air capabilities, we are reminded of the Navy’s enduring dedication to protect our shores and uphold our maritime dominance.

By supporting such endeavors, we not only back our servicemen and women but also fortify the nation’s defensive pillars.

For those reading, consider this an invitation to be part of this journey. Stand with the Americans for a Stronger Navy, and together, let’s ensure that our nation remains unyielding, both on the seas and in the skies above.

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Challenges in the South China Sea

A Chinese naval Z-9 helicopter prepares to land aboard the People’s Liberation Army (Navy) frigate CNS Huangshan (FFG-570) as the ship conducts a series of maneuvers and exchanges with the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Sterett (DDG 104) in the South China Sea June 16, 2017. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Byron C. Linder

Introduction: Hello to our esteemed members and subscribers! We bring you the latest developments from the South China Sea, shining light on China’s concerning activities and highlighting the unwavering support of the US Navy in the region.

China’s Growing Assertiveness in the South China Sea: China’s recent “aggressive behaviour” in the South China Sea, especially the use of water canons against a Philippine vessel, is causing increasing alarm. This blatant show of force not only challenges regional dynamics but underscores the importance of naval power in the face of rising threats.

US Navy’s Stance: Vice Admiral Karl Thomas, the commander of the U.S. Navy’s Seventh Fleet, has voiced concern over these provocative actions. “My forces are out here for a reason,” Thomas emphasized, signaling the US Navy’s commitment to counterbalance such regional aggressions. The Seventh Fleet, stationed primarily in Japan, boasts up to 70 ships, approximately 150 aircraft, and over 27,000 sailors, covering a vast area of 124 million square km.

Recent Incidents on the South China Sea: A significant incident unfolded on August 5th when a Chinese coast guard ship used water canons against a Philippine vessel transporting supplies to its troops. This aggressive move only deepens the fault lines between the US and China in the region.

US and Philippine Collaborative Measures: Vice Admiral Thomas and Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos of the Philippine Western Command have been in discussions to better comprehend the challenges faced by the Philippines in the South China Sea. Their collaboration aims to fortify strategies and enhance the region’s security.

China’s Territorial Claims and Militarization: China’s territorial assertions in the South China Sea have long been contentious, especially after their claims were refuted by an international tribunal in 2016. Yet, China continues to militarize artificial islands in the region, which overlap with exclusive economic zones of several Southeast Asian nations, leading to heightened tensions.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Assertive Behavior: China’s actions in the South China Sea are becoming increasingly aggressive, challenging regional stability.
  2. US Navy’s Dedication: The Seventh Fleet underlines the US’s commitment to ensuring peace and stability in the region.
  3. Need for Collaboration: Dialogues between the US Navy and the Philippine Western Command signify the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing shared challenges.

Conclusion: The dynamics in the South China Sea are complex and rapidly evolving. As China intensifies its assertive actions, the role of the US Navy, along with collaborative efforts with regional allies, becomes increasingly crucial. The recent incidents underline the importance of maintaining a formidable naval presence and fostering cooperation to ensure peace and stability in the region.

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The U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard is the official ceremonial unit of the Navy, established in 1931

Sailors from the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard and a trumpeter from the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Band conduct Military Funeral Honors for U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman Petty Officer 3rd Class Ernest Barchers, Jr. in Columbarium Court 11 at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Aug. 22, 2023. Barchers served during WWII and Korea. Barchers was inurned with his wife, Norma, during the same ceremony. They were married for 72 years. Barchers’ son, Steven, received the U.S. flag from the service. (U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released)

Located at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, DC, the Navy Ceremonial Guard’s primary mission is to represent the service in Presidential, Joint Armed Forces, Navy, and public ceremonies in and around the nation’s capital .

One of the most solemn and honorable duties of the Navy Ceremonial Guard is to conduct military funeral honors for Navy personnel buried in Arlington National Cemetery. The Navy Ceremonial Guard serves as the funeral escort and provides casket bearers, firing party, color guard, and bugler for these services.

Among the thousands of Navy veterans who rest in Arlington National Cemetery are many who served during World War II and the Korean War. These veterans fought bravely and sacrificed greatly for our nation and our allies in two of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century.

They deserve our utmost respect and gratitude for their service.

On August 22, 2023, the Navy Ceremonial Guard conducted military funeral honors for Petty Officer 3rd Class Ernest Barchers Jr., who served during both World War II and the Korean War.

Barchers was inurned with his wife of 72 years during the ceremony . Barchers was one of the many World War II and Korean War veterans who experienced cold injuries as a result of exposure to severe cold climates during their service.

Cold weather accounted for 16% of Army non-battle injuries and over 5,000 U.S. casualties of cold injury required evacuation from Korea during the winter of 1950-1951.

These cold-related problems may worsen as veterans grow older and develop complicating conditions such as diabetes and peripheral vascular disease, which place them at higher risk for late amputations .

The Navy Ceremonial Guard honors these veterans not only by providing them with dignified funeral services, but also by raising awareness about their health issues and benefits.

The Veterans Affairs (VA) offers health care and compensation benefits for veterans who were exposed to ionizing radiation or participated in radiation-risk activities during World War II or the Korean War The VA also provides an Ionizing Radiation Registry health exam and clinical treatment at VA’s War Related Illness and Injury Study Centers

The U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard is proud to serve as a living symbol of naval heritage and tradition. They are dedicated to honoring the legacy of those who served before them, especially the heroes of World War II and the Korean War.

They are also committed to educating the public about the history and achievements of the Navy and its veterans.

We at Americans for a Stronger Navy salute the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard for their professionalism, excellence, and devotion to duty. We also thank all World War II and Korean War veterans for their courage, sacrifice, and service to our country. You are not forgotten.

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The USS Ted Stevens: The Ship That Can Strike Anywhere in Minutes

USS Ted Stevens (DDG-128)

Hello, members and subscribers of Stronger Navy! We are back with another exciting update on the latest developments in America’s naval power.

Today, we are going to talk about the USS Ted Stevens (DDG-128), a new Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer that will be one of the most powerful and lethal warships in the world.

The ship was launched on August 15, 2023, and was christened on August 19, 2023, by his widow and daughters.

The ship is named after the late Senator Ted Stevens, who served Alaska for over 40 years and was a strong supporter of the Navy and the Marine Corps. He was also a decorated World War II pilot who flew missions in China, Burma, and India.

He survived several plane crashes, including one in 1978 that killed his first wife and another one in 2010 that killed him and four others. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Air Medals, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The USS Ted Stevens is the third ship of the Flight III of the Arleigh Burke-class, which features improved capabilities in missile defense, air warfare, and electronic warfare.

The Flight III ships are equipped with the AN/SPY-6 (V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar (AMDR), which is 35 times more powerful than the previous radar systems and can detect and track multiple threats simultaneously.

The Flight III ships also have the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) system, which can launch hypersonic missiles that can travel faster than five times the speed of sound and strike targets anywhere in the world within minutes.

The USS Ted Stevens will be one of the first ships to carry this system, which will give it a significant edge over potential adversaries.

The USS Ted Stevens will join the USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000) and its sister ships as part of America’s naval power projection in an era of great power competition.

The USS Zumwalt is a revolutionary ship that represents the future of naval warfare, with its stealth design, electric propulsion, and potential to carry hypersonic weapons.

The ship’s homeport shift from San Diego to Pascagoula, Mississippi, is part of a plan to upgrade the ship with new technologies and systems, such as the CPS system. The USS Zumwalt and its sister ships will provide a significant boost to America’s naval power and deterrence.

We hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new about the USS Ted Stevens and its significance for America’s naval power.

We invite you to share your thoughts and opinions on this topic in the comments section below. Thank you for your support and stay tuned for more updates from Stronger Navy!

  • The USS Ted Stevens is the third ship of the Flight III of the Arleigh Burke -class, which features improved capabilities in missile defense, air warfare, and electronic warfare. The Flight III ships are equipped with the AN/SPY-6 (V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar (AMDR), which is 35 times more powerful than the previous radar systems and can detect and track multiple threats simultaneously. The Flight III ships also have the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) system, which can launch hypersonic missiles that can travel faster than five times the speed of sound and strike targets anywhere in the world within minutes.
  • The USS Ted Stevens will be one of the first ships to carry this system, which will give it a significant edge over potential adversaries.
  • The USS Ted Stevens is named after Ted Stevens, who was the longest serving Republican U.S. senator in history when he left office in 2009. He represented Alaska for over 40 years and was a strong advocate for the Navy and the Marine Corps.
  • He was also a decorated World War II pilot who flew missions in China, Burma, and India. He survived several plane crashes, including one in 1978 that killed his first wife and another one in 2010 that killed him and four others. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Air Medals, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
  • The USS Ted Stevens was launched on August 15, 2023, at the Ingalls Shipbuilding division of Huntington Ingalls Industries in Pascagoula, Mississippi. It was christened on August 19, 2023, by his widow Catherine Ann Stevens and his daughters Susan Stevens Covich, Lily Irene Becker, and Karina Stevens.
  • The ship’s motto is “Lead with Courage”, which reflects Ted Stevens’ legacy of leadership and service. The ship’s crest features a grizzly bear, which symbolizes Alaska’s wildlife and Ted Stevens’ nickname “Uncle Ted”. It also features a gold star, which represents his military service and his Medal of Freedom. The ship’s hull number is DDG-128, which coincides with Ted Stevens’ birthday on November 28.