When I worked for the Reagan Library, I was in charge of communications for the library and the visiting presidents and their families. One of the most extraordinary moments of my career occurred during the library’s dedication, a historic occasion where five living U.S. presidents—Nixon, Ford, Carter, Reagan, and Bush—would stand together for the first time. Or so we thought.
Initially, it was announced that President Jimmy Carter would not be attending. He had prior commitments in Zimbabwe, monitoring elections. At the time, I understood the demands of his global responsibilities, as well as the history of tensions between President Reagan and President Carter during the Iran hostage crisis. His absence seemed understandable. The office prepared for him sat empty.
A Midnight Change of Heart
Then, at 2 a.m. the night before the dedication, everything changed. I received a call from my boss informing me that President Carter had a change of heart. He was on a red-eye flight to California and would be attending after all. I was asked to have his office telecommunications ready in time for his arrival. Despite the unexpected timing, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at his decision. It spoke volumes about his character and the depth of his commitment to history. He was determined to be there, recognizing the significance of the moment.
That day remains one of the most extraordinary events I’ve witnessed. The sight of five living presidents together was a reminder of the shared commitment that transcends differences, something President Carter exemplified with his presence.
A Meeting in Plains, Georgia
On a personal note, I brought photos of the presidents to the event, which I managed to have signed by the other four. My goal was to complete the set with President Carter’s signature. Unfortunately, years later, when I had the chance to meet him again, a delayed flight caused me to miss the connection. The photos went back into the closet, unsigned, and I thought I had missed my opportunity.
Persistence Pays: Completing the Signatures
But persistence often pays off. Twenty-five years after the Reagan Library dedication, I finally met President Carter in Plains, Georgia, during a church service. It was a quiet but profound moment. I thanked him for his service, both as a Navy officer and as President, and I shared the story of the photos. To my great joy, he graciously signed them, completing a journey that had begun decades earlier.
Those two photos, now signed by five living presidents, are treasures I’ve passed on to my children. They represent not just a piece of history but a lesson in perseverance, leadership, and unity.
Lessons in Leadership and Unity
As the founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I often reflect on how President Carter embodies the values of service and humility we hold dear. His actions at the Reagan Library and throughout his life remind us of the importance of rising above differences and serving a greater good.
Inspired by the Navy’s Legacy
The U.S. Navy is, and always has been, a source for good in the world. My respect for those who serve and have served in the Navy inspires me every single day. Their dedication, sacrifice, and commitment to safeguarding our nation and promoting peace globally is a profound reminder of what it means to lead a life of purpose.
A Call to Serve with Honor
I hope President Carter’s legacy continues to inspire others, as it has inspired me, to serve with honor and dedication in our own ways.
As we welcome 2025, Americans for a Stronger Navy extends heartfelt wishes for a joyful and prosperous New Year to our members, subscribers, and supporters. Your dedication to our mission continues to inspire us as we advocate for a strong and resilient Navy.
Bill Cullifer, Founder
To celebrate, we’d like to share a piece of naval tradition highlighted in The Washington Post by retired Navy captain Sam Tangredi. His article, “On New Year’s Day, the U.S. Navy Rules the Rhymes,” features poetic entries from U.S. Navy ship logs—a unique way sailors have rung in the New Year since the 1920s.
Here’s an excerpt from the USS Coral Sea’s New Year’s log, written by Lt. J.G. R.J. Barrett in 1975:
USS Coral Sea By R.J. Barrett, lieutenant junior grade, U.S. Navy Reserve
Assumed the watch. Nineteen seventy-five, the very first day Finds Coral Sea in Subic Bay. Section Four is the “lucky one” To stay aboard and miss the fun.
Our shipmates all have gone ashore, At twelve o’clock we heard the roar. So far away and yet so near; Moored starboard side to Alava Pier.
This snapshot of life aboard a U.S. Navy vessel showcases the creativity and camaraderie of our sailors. You can read the full article, including poems from the USS Constellation and USS Charleston, by visiting The Washington Post.
As we step into the new year, let’s remember the sacrifices and traditions that unite our Navy community. Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue to champion the needs of our Navy and the brave individuals who serve.
Fair winds and following seas, The Americans for a Stronger Navy Team
The Indo-Pacific and the Middle East are regions of growing concern, placing increasing demands on the U.S. Navy’s fleet. To meet these challenges, the Navy has taken a dual approach: commissioning advanced new ships like the USS John Basilone while retaining older but highly capable destroyers. Together, these efforts ensure the Navy can continue to project power, deter aggression, and respond effectively to crises.
The Backbone of the Fleet: Why USS John Basilone Matters More Than Ever
The Indo-Pacific and the Middle East are regions of growing concern, placing increasing demands on the U.S. Navy’s fleet. To meet these challenges, the Navy has taken a dual approach: commissioning advanced new ships like the USS John Basilone while retaining older but highly capable destroyers. Together, these efforts ensure the Navy can continue to project power, deter aggression, and respond effectively to crises.
Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, like the newly commissioned USS John Basilone, are the backbone of the Navy’s surface fleet. These multi-mission ships excel in air, surface, and subsurface operations, providing unparalleled flexibility in addressing a wide range of threats. However, not all destroyers are created equal. The USS John Basilone stands out as one of the last Flight IIA configurations, featuring advancements that position it as a cutting-edge addition to the fleet.
What Sets USS John Basilone Apart
Commissioned on November 9, 2024, the USS John Basilone is one of the last destroyers built before the Navy transitions to the next-generation Flight III Arleigh Burke-class ships. While it doesn’t include the new AN/SPY-6 radar of the Flight III class, it boasts the following capabilities:
Enhanced Aegis Combat System: The USS John Basilone is equipped with the AN/SPY-1D(v) radar, part of the Navy’s most advanced integrated combat system, capable of addressing air, surface, and subsurface threats with precision.
Formidable Armament: With a 96-cell Mk 41 Vertical Launch System, it can launch a wide range of missiles, including Tomahawk cruise missiles, Standard Missiles, and RUM-139A anti-submarine missiles. It also includes torpedoes, close-in weapon systems, and options for Harpoon or Naval Strike Missiles.
Aviation Capabilities: The ship carries two MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, further enhancing its anti-submarine and reconnaissance operations.
Multi-Mission Versatility: As a Flight IIA destroyer, it’s designed for Anti-Air Warfare (AAW), Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW), making it a versatile asset for modern conflict.
These features ensure the USS John Basilone can operate independently or as part of a larger flotilla, addressing today’s complex challenges with confidence.
Meeting the Challenges Head-On
While the USS John Basilone represents the future, retaining older destroyers also remains vital to the Navy’s strategy. Maintaining these ships requires significant investment in upgrades and maintenance to keep them mission-ready. However, these costs pale in comparison to the risks of reducing the fleet size at a time when adversaries like China and Russia are rapidly expanding their naval capabilities.
This dual approach—introducing advanced new ships like the USS John Basilone while retaining older vessels—ensures the Navy has the capacity and versatility needed to respond to crises across the globe.
A Call to Support the Navy
As Americans, we must recognize the importance of supporting a strong Navy. Investments in shipbuilding, maintenance, and modernization are not just about national security—they’re about protecting the sailors who serve and ensuring the Navy can meet today’s challenges and those that lie ahead. Let us honor the legacy of heroes like John Basilone by advocating for the resources our Navy needs.
A Shout-Out to a True Supporter
A big shout-out to Susan Ann Cunha, a dedicated supporter of the U.S. Navy and a stronger military! Susan recently shared an insightful quote that resonates deeply with our mission: “The U.S. Navy needs more ships and more shipyards.”
Her unwavering commitment to ensuring the Navy has the tools and resources it needs to protect our nation is truly inspiring. Supporters like Susan remind us why it’s so important to rally behind our sailors and the infrastructure that sustains them. Thank you, Susan Ann Cunha, for your passion and steadfast support—you embody the spirit of what makes America strong!
As we reflect on the courage and resilience of our veterans this coming Monday, I want to share the incredible story of Captain Charlie Plumb.
Growing up as a farm kid from Kansas, he dreamed of seeing the world and serving his country. He joined the U.S. Navy, became a Top Gun pilot, and flew 74 combat missions. But on his last mission, just five days from returning home, his plane was shot down over Hanoi. Captured and held as a prisoner of war for nearly six years, he endured unimaginable hardships, surviving in an 8×8 cell and suffering brutal treatment, all while separated from his family.
When he was finally freed, Captain Plumb’s first flight home stopped at Clark Air Base in the Philippines. He called home, only to hear the devastating news that his wife, who had waited for five long years, had filed for divorce just three months before his release. It was yet another challenge, but he faced it as he had all the others—with strength, resilience, and the unshakeable will to move forward.
Captain Plumb’s story is a reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices our veterans make. He shows us that adversity is, as he says, a “horrible thing to waste,” encouraging us to face our own challenges with courage and hope.
To veterans everywhere thank you. Your resilience, and commitment inspire every day. I am forever grateful for your service and sacrifice.
This week, the U.S. Navy demonstrated its unwavering commitment to global maritime security and operational excellence.
Notably, the USS Stockdale engaged in a bilateral exercise with the Egyptian navy in the Red Sea, enhancing international naval cooperation.
In the political arena, Donald Trump has been elected as the 47th President of the United States, marking a significant return to leadership. He is set to assume office as commander in chief on January 20, 2025.
The USS John S. McCain returned to Naval Station Everett, marking the successful completion of its deployment.
In a significant transition, Fleet Readiness Center Southwest bid farewell to its last legacy aircraft, the F/A-18 Hornet, symbolizing a new era in naval aviation maintenance.
Additionally, the USS Oak Hill’s arrival in Limassol, Cyprus, underscores the Navy’s dedication to fostering international relations.
These developments, among others, highlight the Navy’s continuous efforts to maintain global partnerships, enhance readiness, and honor its personnel.
Donald Trump Wins Second Term as U.S. President
Donald Trump has been elected as the 47th president of the United States, marking a significant comeback following his tumultuous first term.
U.S., Egyptian Navies Conduct Bilateral Exercise in Red Sea
On November 1, 2024, the USS Stockdale (DDG 106) participated in a bilateral exercise with the Egyptian navy in the Red Sea, enhancing interoperability and strengthening maritime partnerships.
USS John S. McCain Returns Home from Deployment
The guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) returned to Naval Station Everett after a successful deployment, contributing to regional security and stability.
FRCSW Bids Farewell to Its Last Legacy Aircraft
Fleet Readiness Center Southwest (FRCSW) completed maintenance on its final legacy aircraft, an F/A-18 Hornet, marking a significant transition in naval aviation maintenance.
USS Oak Hill Arrives in Limassol, Cyprus
The Harpers Ferry-class amphibious landing dock ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) arrived in Limassol, Cyprus, for a scheduled port visit, fostering international relations and cooperation.
Deputy Under Secretary of the Navy for Intelligence and Security Visits NAVSCIATTS
Victor B. Minella, Deputy Under Secretary of the Navy for Intelligence and Security, toured the Naval Small Craft Instruction and Technical Training School’s facilities, emphasizing the importance of intelligence and security training.
HSC-26 Embraces History and Heritage Ahead of Veterans Day 2024
Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26 hosted a former aviator from its predecessor squadron, HC-6, to discuss squadron history and heritage in anticipation of Veterans Day.
Navy Recruiting Command Announces FY25 Recruiting Goals
Navy Recruiting Command announced its recruitment goals for Fiscal Year 2025, focusing on innovative strategies to build a mission-ready force.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2024: A Message from the Chief of Naval Operations
Chief of Naval Operations emphasized the critical role of cybersecurity in safeguarding the Navy’s information and communications technology, urging all personnel to contribute to this effort.
Chief of Naval Operations Inducted into Rhode Island Italian American Hall of Fame
Adm. Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations, received the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Rhode Island Italian-American Hall of Fame, recognizing her distinguished career.
USS The Sullivans Deploys
The guided-missile destroyer USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) departed Naval Station Mayport for a scheduled deployment, continuing its commitment to global maritime security.
SECNAV Announces Service Life Extensions for 3 Cruisers
The Department of the Navy plans to operate three Ticonderoga-class cruisers beyond their expected service life, adding 10 years of cumulative ship service life from fiscal year 2026 to 2029.
Readout of Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti’s Meeting with Chief of the Royal New Zealand Navy
Adm. Lisa Franchetti met virtually with Rear Adm. Garin Golding to discuss shared defense and security priorities, strengthening naval partnerships.
The Department of the Navy is Establishing a Naval Strategic Studies Group (NSSG) Program
The Department of the Navy is establishing a Naval Strategic Studies Group program in January, administered by the DON Office of Strategic Assessment, to enhance strategic planning and assessment.
SECNAV Announces Service Life Extensions for 12 Destroyers
Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced plans to operate 12 Arleigh Burke-class Flight I Destroyers beyond their 35-year expected service life, ensuring continued naval readiness.
VCNO Visits Students, Navy Leadership in Newport
Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jim Kilby visited Newport, R.I., to meet with students and Navy leadership, discussing the achievements and lessons learned at Surface Warfare Schools Command.
U.S. Navy, Royal Navy, and U.S. Marine Corps Meet to Discuss Strategic Charter
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti, Royal Navy First Sea Lord Adm. Sir Ben Key, and U.S. Marine Corps Deputy Commandant Lt. Gen. James Bierman Jr. met to discuss the ongoing strategic charter and celebrate the 10th anniversary of delivering combined seapower.
Assistant Secretary of the Navy Emphasizes National Call to Maritime Service and Education
Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Manpower & Reserve Affairs), the Honorable Franklin R. Parker, visited California institutions to emphasize the national call to maritime service and education.
Chief of Naval Operations, Master Chief Petty Officer of Navy Visit Gulf Coast
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea traveled to the Gulf Coast to engage with warfighters, discussing the Navy’s role in national defense.
U.S. Navy’s Newest Destroyer Honors a True American Hero
The latest Arleigh Burke-class destroyer honors a respected American hero, showcasing dedication to service.
Oldest Arleigh Burke Destroyers Receive Service Extensions
Selected Arleigh Burke-class destroyers will remain in service into the 2030s, ensuring operational readiness.
Russia Watch:
Satellite Images Show Russian Warships’ Unusual Movements
Russia temporarily vacated its Black Sea Fleet base, later returning the warships, raising questions about strategic maneuvers.
Russia Deploys ‘Most Dangerous Warship’
The Russian Navy has deployed a heavily armed warship, underscoring its naval buildup amidst rising global tensions.
China Watch:
China’s New Radar System Enhances South China Sea Surveillance
Satellite images reveal China’s construction of a new radar system on Triton Island in the South China Sea, potentially capable of detecting stealth aircraft, thereby enhancing its surveillance capabilities in the region.
China’s Rapid Construction of New Aircraft Carrier
Recent satellite photographs indicate that China has constructed a new aircraft carrier within six months, highlighting its rapid expansion of military-industrial capabilities and raising concerns among analysts.
Iran Watch:
Iran Plans Significant Increase in Military Budget
Iran’s government plans to raise its military budget by around 200%, as stated by government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani, following recent exchanges of attacks with Israel.
Conclusion:
This week’s news highlights the Navy’s continuous efforts in honoring heroes, securing readiness, and advancing maritime partnerships. Keep up with more in-depth stories on our blog at 👉 strongernavy.org/blog.
Please support the Navy and the Americans for Stronger Navy by following us on Facebook or by completing the contact us page by clicking here.
Today, on Navy Day, we come together to honor and salute the men and women who serve our nation at sea, in the air, and under the water. From the junior sailors just starting their journey to the seasoned officers guiding them, every rank and every role contributes to the strength of our Navy. It’s a day to recognize the dedication, sacrifices, and courage of sailors at all levels.
The Navy’s mission is one that demands resilience, precision, and teamwork. Whether they are aboard destroyers, submarines, aircraft carriers, or supporting logistics from shore, sailors ensure that the United States remains a maritime power committed to peace and security across the globe.
But today isn’t just about acknowledging the big achievements. It’s about celebrating the unsung heroes—the sailors standing watch at midnight, those repairing critical systems in the heart of the ship, and the families who support them from home. It’s about the whole team that makes our Navy what it is—a force of readiness, skill, and unshakable resolve.
As a former Destroyer Navy sailor, I’ve seen firsthand the demands of life at sea. It’s tough, it’s rewarding, and above all, it’s necessary for the safety of our nation. Our Navy is strong, but the times call for even more support, from more officers and sailors to more ships and technology like drones. The world is changing, and we must be ready.
So, on this Navy Day, let’s take a moment to salute sailors everywhere. Let’s thank them for their service, their sacrifice, and their commitment. And let’s remind Americans that the strength of our Navy depends not only on those who serve but also on the support of the people they protect.
Happy Navy Day to all who serve, have served, and will serve!
Introduction: This week’s roundup highlights the U.S. Navy’s best and the brightest, strong partnerships, innovative technologies, and commemorative milestones, reflecting its ongoing commitment to maritime security and operational readiness. From joint exercises with allies to leadership changes and technological advancements, the Navy continues to shape its global influence.
U.S. Navy Global Engagement and Readiness
Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group Collaborates with Italian Navy The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group conducted a second Multi-Large Deck Event (MLDE) with Italy’s ITS Cavour Carrier Strike Group in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility on October 18, 2024. This joint exercise showcases the U.S. Navy’s commitment to working with allies to enhance interoperability and promote maritime security in key regions.
U.S., UAE Forces Launch Exercise Iron Defender U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard units, alongside the UAE Naval Defense Forces, began the Iron Defender 24 exercise in the Arabian Gulf. This 10-day exercise focuses on enhancing regional security and improving joint maritime operations.
USS Harpers Ferry Returns Home from Deployment After a successful seven-month deployment in the U.S. 7th and 3rd Fleet areas of operation, USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) returned to San Diego on October 18, 2024. The amphibious dock landing ship and the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conducted numerous operations during their deployment, demonstrating the Navy’s global reach and readiness.
Leadership and Personnel Changes
Navy Relieves Top Commanders at Japan Ship Repair Facility On October 21, 2024, the U.S. Navy removed Capt. Zaldy Valenzuela and Cmdr. Art Palalay, the commanding and executive officers at the U.S. Naval Ship Repair Facility and Japan Regional Maintenance Center in Yokosuka, citing a loss of confidence in their leadership. This change comes as the Navy continues to emphasize accountability and performance across its leadership.
Remembering Two Trailblazing Aviators: Lt. Cmdr. Evans and Lt. Wileman The Navy mourns the loss of two decorated aviators, Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay “Miley” Evans and Lt. Serena “Dug” Wileman, who tragically died during a routine training flight near Mount Rainier on October 15, 2024. Both were role models and trailblazers in naval aviation, leaving a lasting impact on their squadrons and communities.
Innovation and Technology
Carderock Hosts Navy Small Business Symposium The Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Carderock Division hosted a Small Business Industry Day in collaboration with the NavalX Capital Tech Bridge on October 16, 2024. The event aimed to foster partnerships between the Navy and private industries, particularly focusing on expanding naval innovation and technology.
Navy Announces Future Commissioning of USS Beloit The U.S. Navy has scheduled the commissioning ceremony for the USS Beloit (LCS 29), a Freedom-variant Littoral Combat Ship, for November 23, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This new vessel will enhance the Navy’s near-shore operational capabilities
International Partnerships and Exercises
Fifth U.S. Navy Destroyer Homeports in Rota, Spain The USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) arrived at its new homeport of Naval Station Rota on October 15, 2024. The destroyer is the fifth U.S. Navy ship to shift to Rota, further bolstering the Forward Deployed Naval Forces-Europe presence and enhancing U.S. strategic capabilities in the region.
National Museum of the United States Navy Site Formally Announced On October 18, 2024, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro formally announced the new location for the National Museum of the United States Navy during a ceremony in Washington, D.C. This marks a significant step in preserving and honoring the Navy’s history for future generations.
China, Russia, and Iran Watch
China Watch Chinese naval forces remain highly active in the Indo-Pacific, continuing joint patrols with Russian warships in the Northwest Pacific. These exercises highlight China’s growing naval capabilities and influence in contested waters. Meanwhile, China’s shipbuilding industry continues to outpace other nations, presenting challenges to the U.S. in terms of both production capacity and modernization.
Russia Watch Russian and Chinese naval forces recently completed major exercises in the western Pacific, signaling a deepening military alliance. The exercises underscore Russia’s commitment to projecting power in the Arctic and challenging NATO’s presence in the region.
Iran Watch The Navy remains vigilant in the Middle East as tensions with Iran continue to escalate. The Iron Defender 24 exercise between the U.S. and UAE demonstrates the Navy’s strategic focus on securing vital maritime routes and responding to threats in the Arabian Gulf.
Conclusion:
This week’s news highlights the Navy’s ongoing efforts to maintain global partnerships, enhance readiness, and honor its personnel. With joint exercises, leadership changes, and continued technological innovation, the U.S. Navy remains at the forefront of ensuring maritime security and operational excellence.
Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll dive deeper into the technical aspects of TRAM and how it promises to revolutionize naval operations.
As we celebrate another year of the Navy’s proud legacy, I want to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable men and women who serve this great nation, especially those away from home and in harm’s way. Your unwavering commitment and sacrifice allow us to enjoy the freedoms we hold dear.
To all our sailors—past and present—who have stood watch on the seas, I want to say thank you. We owe you a debt of gratitude that words can scarcely express. On this day, our hearts go out to the families who stand behind you, providing strength while you are far from home.
Today, as we honor this incredible milestone in U.S. Navy history, let us remember that the Navy’s strength is not just in its ships and technology but in the spirit, dedication, and resilience of those who serve. You embody the very essence of service, sacrifice, and duty.
Know that we stand with you, not just today but every day. Happy birthday to our U.S. Navy, and may you continue to navigate the seas, safeguarding peace and freedom.
With respect and admiration, Bill Cullifer Founder, Americans for a Stronger Navy
As the Coast Guard recently raised its enlistment age to 42, the conversation has sparked renewed interest among Navy veterans about whether the Navy should follow suit. In a recent survey conducted by Americans for a Stronger Navy, many former Navy veterans agreed that raising the enlistment age would be a step in the right direction to address recruitment shortfalls while filling critical technical and leadership roles.
The Need for Broader Recruitment In an era of increasingly complex military operations, the Navy is faced with the dual challenge of recruiting more personnel while maintaining readiness. Raising the enlistment age could help the Navy reach a wider pool of potential recruits who bring not only maturity and discipline but also valuable civilian expertise, particularly in fields like cybersecurity, aviation, and engineering. This would allow the Navy to meet its manpower needs without compromising on the quality of recruits.
Insights from Veterans: Why Raising the Age Matters
Our survey of former Navy veterans revealed a strong consensus that the Navy should increase its enlistment age from 41 to at least 45. Veterans cited several reasons for their support, including:
Experience and Expertise: Many roles in today’s Navy require not just physical capability but technical expertise and life experience. Older recruits often bring a wealth of knowledge from their civilian careers that could be immediately applied in highly specialized areas.
Retention and Return of Prior Service Members: Former sailors are more likely to return if the Navy makes it easier for them to reenlist later in life. This ensures the Navy retains institutional knowledge and leadership capabilities that take years to develop.
Physical and Technical Balance: While physical fitness is important for all military branches, not every role in the Navy demands the same level of physical rigor as in ground combat. Older recruits can excel in areas like logistics, command and control, and technical maintenance roles, where mental acuity and decision-making are paramount.
Visualizing the Benefits
To further illustrate the insights gathered from veterans, below is a breakdown of the benefits of raising the enlistment age based on survey responses.
As the chart shows, the primary benefits cited by veterans include the recruitment of more experienced individuals, improved retention, and the ability to fill technical roles that are critical to modern naval operations.
Addressing Concerns About Physical Standards
One challenge often brought up in discussions about raising the enlistment age is whether older recruits can meet the Navy’s physical fitness standards. However, many veterans believe the Navy could adjust fitness standards based on the role being filled. While roles requiring peak physical fitness, such as Navy SEALs or shipboard operations, would maintain strict standards, technical and administrative positions could afford to prioritize experience over physical endurance.
Veterans’ Reasons for Supporting a Higher Enlistment Age
The following chart highlights the main reasons veterans support raising the enlistment age, emphasizing the importance of technical expertise and leadership experience.
Looking to the Future: Aligning with Modern Needs
By raising the enlistment age, the Navy would be tapping into a broader talent pool at a time when recruiting has become increasingly difficult. Other branches, like the Army and now the Coast Guard, have already adapted their recruiting strategies to reflect this reality. The Navy should lead in utilizing older, experienced recruits to help bridge the gap in technical skills, fill critical positions, and ensure our fleet is ready to face 21st-century challenges.
Conclusion: Veterans Support the Change
As the conversation continues around recruitment in the U.S. military, it’s clear that raising the enlistment age for the Navy would be a strategic move to address both immediate and long-term needs. The survey of former Navy veterans shows strong support for this change, and it could significantly benefit both the Navy and the nation it protects. By adapting its recruitment strategies, the Navy can continue to grow as a force that combines both physical readiness and the intellectual rigor needed to lead in an ever-evolving geopolitical landscape.
Welcome to this week’s edition of U.S. Naval News. At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we’re committed to keeping you informed about the latest developments from around the fleet. This week, we bring you key updates, including the USS Abraham Lincoln’s strategic deployment to the Gulf of Oman and cutting-edge advancements in drone operations aboard the USS George H.W. Bush.
But we’re not stopping there. In this edition, we’re introducing a new feature—an in-depth editorial commentary. Following the news, we’ll dive deeper into a critical issue affecting our Navy: the recent GAO report on the state of U.S. shipyards. This report raises alarms about the capacity and readiness of our shipyards to meet the demands of a modern Navy. We’ll explore why this matters, what needs to be done, and how you—our readers and supporters—can join us in advocating for change.
Your involvement is more important than ever. Together, we can make a difference.
Thank you for your continued support.
Operational Updates
USS Abraham Lincoln Deployment: The USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) has positioned itself in the Gulf of Oman as part of a broader strategy to maintain a strong naval presence in the Middle East. This deployment comes amid increasing regional tensions, particularly related to Iran’s activities.
Theodore Roosevelt Strike Group Rescue: The USS Theodore Roosevelt Strike Group successfully rescued two distressed Iranian mariners in international waters. The rescue operation underscores the U.S. Navy’s readiness and commitment to maritime safety and humanitarian missions in the region.
Submarine Maintenance in Australia: The USS Hawaii (SSN 776) conducted scheduled maintenance at HMAS Stirling, Australia, under the AUKUS Pillar 1 initiative, which supports Australia’s development of a sovereign conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarine capability.
Bilateral Operations with Italian Navy: The U.S. Navy and Italian Navy conducted joint operations in the Philippine Sea, focusing on enhancing maritime security and demonstrating a unified commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Technological and Strategic Developments
Drone Command Center on USS George H.W. Bush: A new drone command center has been installed on the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) to operate MQ-25 “Stingray” drones, marking a significant advancement in the Navy’s unmanned aerial capabilities.
FY24 NDAA Shipbuilding Boost: The U.S. Senate’s version of the FY24 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes authorization for the procurement of 10 new battle force ships, emphasizing the ongoing modernization of the Navy’s fleet.
China Watch: China recently claimed breakthroughs in autonomous vehicle technology, which could have significant military applications, including advanced driver-assistance systems and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These developments are closely tied to China’s broader strategy of integrating military and civilian technology efforts.
Russia Watch: Concerns continue to mount over the U.S. Navy’s readiness, particularly with regard to the availability of dry docks for essential ship repairs. U.S. lawmakers have voiced concerns about how this impacts naval operations, especially when compared to China’s rapid shipbuilding pace.
Community and Leadership News
Navy Shipyards Under Scrutiny: The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) has raised concerns about the capacity and efficiency of U.S. shipyards, emphasizing the need for modernization to keep pace with global naval demands. The GAO report, released on September 2, 2024, highlights that delays in ship repairs and upgrades could severely impact fleet readiness. The report also notes that inadequate infrastructure and workforce shortages are critical challenges that need immediate attention.
Navy Wants Industry’s Help to Reduce Costs: Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro has called on the defense industry to partner with the Navy in reducing sustainment costs, particularly by securing better terms for technical data rights in acquisition contracts.
Editorial: The Imperative to Modernize U.S. Navy Shipyards
The recent GAO report underscores what we at Americans for a Stronger Navy have been emphasizing for the past two years: the state of our Navy’s shipyards is a national crisis. The threats we face are real and cannot be overstated. As the GAO has highlighted, the current state of our shipyards directly threatens our fleet’s readiness and, by extension, our national security.
This is not just a Navy issue—it’s a national imperative. We cannot expect the Navy to shoulder this burden alone. It’s time for Congress to act decisively, providing the necessary funding and legislative support to modernize our shipyards. The Navy’s ability to maintain a robust, ready fleet depends on it.
We propose a multi-faceted approach to solving this crisis. A private-public-community partnership is essential to drive the changes needed. Industry leaders, local communities, and government must come together to build the workforce, improve infrastructure, and streamline processes to ensure our Navy remains the most powerful maritime force in the world.
We can no longer afford to point fingers. It’s time to move forward with a united effort. The future of our national security depends on it.
Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY)
Location: Portsmouth, Virginia
Established: 1767
Specializes in: Overhaul, repair, and modernization of naval ships, particularly nuclear-powered vessels.
Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard
Location: Pearl Harbor, Hawaii
Established: 1908
Specializes in: Overhaul, repair, and modernization of submarines and surface ships.
Puget Sound Naval Shipyard (PSNS)
Location: Bremerton, Washington
Established: 1891
Specializes in: Overhaul, repair, and decommissioning of naval vessels, particularly nuclear-powered ships and submarines.
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard
Location: Kittery, Maine
Established: 1800
Specializes in: Overhaul, repair, and modernization of nuclear-powered submarines.
Specializes in: Construction of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and submarines, as well as ship repair.
Mare Island Naval Shipyard (Closed)
Location: Vallejo, California
Established: 1854, closed in 1996
Specializes in: Ship construction and repair (historically).
Philadelphia Naval Shipyard (Closed)
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Established: 1801, ceased operations in 1995
Specializes in: Ship construction and repair (historically).
These shipyards represent a mixture of active and decommissioned facilities, but the active ones remain critical to maintaining and modernizing the U.S. Navy fleet, particularly in nuclear-powered ships and submarines.
