Category: Opinion Piece

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Don’t Give Up the Ship”: A Legacy of Naval Resilience

Introduction

Bill Culifer, Founder

As the founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I stand before you at the helm of our collective endeavor, navigating through the tempestuous seas of our times. In the spirit of the storied tradition of the U.S. Navy, I am reminded of the age-old battle cry, “Don’t Give Up the Ship.” This phrase, more than just a call to action, is a beacon of resilience that has guided our sailors through storms and skirmishes, embodying the unwavering spirit to persevere, no matter the odds.

We find ourselves in waters marked by significant challenges, yet it is crucial to remember that we have weathered fiercer storms. The annals of history are replete with tales of our forebearers who, with steadfast resolve and a firm grip on the wheel, steered through perils, undeterred by the howling winds of adversity.

Now, as we face the uncertainties of our era, it is time not just to batten down the hatches but to set our sails with purpose, to harness the gales of change, and to chart a course through these turbulent times with courage and determination. Our Navy, a testament to the enduring strength and valor of the human spirit, has for centuries stood as a bulwark against the tempests of history.

Let us draw inspiration from this legacy and rally together, for in unity there is strength. With the compass of our convictions and the anchor of our unity, we shall not only withstand the storms but emerge stronger, guided by the unwavering light of “Don’t Give Up the Ship.”

As we embark on this journey, I invite you to join me at the fore, where together, we will face these challenges head-on, with the resolve and tenacity that have defined our Navy and our nation for generations. The time is now, to stand shoulder to shoulder, as we navigate the choppy waters of our present, buoyed by the lessons of our past and the hope for a brighter tomorrow.

The History Behind the Motto

The story of “Don’t Give Up the Ship” dates back to the War of 1812, when Captain James Lawrence, commanding the USS Chesapeake, uttered these final words amidst a fierce battle with the HMS Shannon. Though Lawrence’s life was cut short, his command lived on, immortalized by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry at the Battle of Lake Erie. This historic event not only marked a turning point in the war but also solidified the motto as a symbol of American naval fortitude.

Symbolism and Legacy

The phrase transcends its historical origins, embodying the principles of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment that define the U.S. Navy. It serves as a rallying cry, inspiring generations of sailors and officers to uphold the highest standards of duty and honor in the defense of our nation.

Why This Matters Now

In an era of evolving threats and global challenges, the legacy of “Don’t Give Up the Ship” is more relevant than ever. It reminds us of the importance of maintaining a formidable, agile, and technologically advanced Navy to safeguard our freedoms and ensure peace and stability in international waters.

What Americans Need to Know

  • National Security: A strong Navy is vital for deterring aggression and protecting American interests both at home and abroad.
  • Economic Impact: The Navy ensures the safety of critical maritime routes, essential for the global economy and the United States’ economic prosperity.
  • Innovation and Technology: Naval research and development have led to significant technological advances, benefiting military and civilian sectors alike.
  • Global Presence: The U.S. Navy’s global reach supports humanitarian missions, aids in disaster relief, and reinforces America’s commitment to international alliances and partnerships.

Why We Advocate

Our advocacy for a robust Navy is driven by more than just historical reverence; it’s motivated by a clear understanding of the strategic and practical implications of naval power. In championing the principles symbolized by “Don’t Give Up the Ship,” we not only honor our naval heritage but also commit to a future where freedom, democracy, and peace can thrive, supported by the strength and vigilance of the United States Navy.

Together, let us pledge our support for this noble cause, understanding that a strong Navy is not just our shield but also our beacon of hope, guiding us toward a safer, more secure world.

Please sign up for our blog post and newsletter and show your support.

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U.S. Naval Shipbuilding: Past, Present, and Future – A Nation’s Perspective

Dear Fellow Americans, Members and Friends of Americans for a Stronger Navy.

Today, we stand at a crucial juncture in our nation’s history, where the strength of our naval fleet is not just a matter of pride, but a critical component of our national security.

Bill Cullifer, Fouder

As the leader of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I am deeply committed to ensuring that the United States remains a formidable maritime power. This blog series, “U.S. Naval Shipbuilding: Past, Present, and Future – A Nation’s Perspective,” is a clarion call to action. It aims to shed light on the current challenges, draw lessons from our rich history, and chart a course for a future where America leads the seas.

The Problem Defined

The U.S. Navy currently faces unprecedented delays and workforce shortages in shipyards, resulting in postponed vessel deliveries and operational challenges. This not only hampers our fleet readiness but also impacts our ability to respond to global threats effectively.

In a statemet, January 11, 2024, Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro has ordered a “comprehensive shipbuilding review” to assess both “national and local causes of shipbuilding challenges.”

“I remain concerned with the lingering effects of post-pandemic conditions on our shipbuilders and their suppliers that continue to affect our shipbuilding programs, particularly our Columbia Class Ballistic Missile Submarines and Constellation Class Frigate,” Del Toro.

Historical Context

Reflecting on World War II, the U.S. overcame similar challenges through innovation, rapid expansion, and national mobilization. These lessons from history are vital as we confront today’s challenges.

Why It Matters

Our naval strength is crucial in an era of increasing global tensions.

Dominance at sea is not just about power projection but also about safeguarding international trade routes and ensuring global stability.

Inadequate shipbuilding capacity poses a direct threat to these objectives.

The Navy’s Stance

The U.S. Navy recognizes these challenges, advocating for efficient production practices and skilled labor. There’s an urgent need to modernize shipyards and invest in training programs to meet this demand.

Calling it a “strategic imperative”, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro urged industry and academia to join efforts to restore the Nation’s competitive shipbuilding and repair landscape.

“We are a nation accustomed to taking on ambitious endeavors, and restoring our maritime strength is no exception.” Del Toro said.

Shipyard Perspectives

Shipyard managers emphasize modernization and investment in workforce training as critical to overcoming current challenges. They advocate for adopting technologies such as automation and advanced materials, and for policies that support the shipbuilding industry.

International Comparisons

Examining successful shipbuilding programs in countries like South Korea and Japan can provide valuable insights into managing efficient and technologically advanced shipyards.

Economic and Environmental Implications

A robust shipbuilding industry is not just a defense asset but also a significant economic driver, creating jobs and fostering technological innovation. Moreover, modern shipbuilding must align with environmental sustainability goals, emphasizing eco-friendly practices.

Public Awareness and Support

It is crucial to increase public awareness and support for naval shipbuilding. This involves understanding the industry’s impact on national security and the economy and recognizing the dedication of those who work in this vital sector.

Role of ‘Americans for a Stronger Navy’

Our organization is committed to highlighting these issues and advocating for a stronger naval fleet. We believe in the power of public support and policy advocacy to drive change.

The Threat and Consequences

Failure to address these challenges could result in a diminished global presence and reduced deterrence capabilities, leaving us vulnerable in an increasingly unpredictable world. The consequences of inaction are stark – diminished naval power in the face of rising global threats.

Public Perspective on U.S. Naval Shipbuilding

In understanding the broader implications of U.S. Naval Shipbuilding, the perspective of the American public plays a crucial role. Recent surveys and public forums indicate a growing awareness of the strategic importance of a strong naval presence for national security.

Many Americans acknowledge the economic impact of the shipbuilding industry, recognizing its role in job creation and technological innovation.

However, there is also a call for greater transparency and efficiency in naval operations and ship construction processes. Concerns about fiscal responsibility and environmental sustainability in shipbuilding practices are increasingly becoming part of the public discourse.

This collective voice underlines the need for a balanced approach that upholds national security interests while addressing public concerns about cost, efficiency, and environmental stewardship.

Conclusion

The need for action is clear. By learning from our past, addressing current challenges, and investing in our future, we can ensure a robust and ready naval fleet. Join us in this series to explore these themes and advocate for a stronger Navy.

Stay tuned for our next post, where we delve deeper into the lessons from World War II and how they can inform our approach today. Let’s move America towards a future of maritime strength and security.

Bill, Founder, Americans for a Stronger Navy

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Outdated Footage of US Warship Fire Falsely Presented as Recent Houthi Attack

Americans for a Stronger Navy: Navigating the Tides of Information and Misinformation

USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) at Naval Base San Diego

In our digital age, where information is rapidly disseminated and often distorted, the recent incident involving the USS Bonhomme Richard video serves as a poignant example of the challenges posed by misinformation. This story aims to explore the impact of misinformation on public perception and policy, particularly in relation to the strategic role and operations of the U.S. Navy.

Misinformation in Naval Affairs: The USS Bonhomme Richard Incident

In January 2024, a video from July 2020 displaying the USS Bonhomme Richard engulfed in flames was inaccurately shared online as an attack during the Israel-Hamas war.

The significant point to note is that the original source of this misinformation was not identified by Reuters.

This omission is a common occurrence in misinformation cases, where content can become widespread without a traceable origin. The incident, in reality, was a well-documented fire in San Diego, leading to the ship’s decommissioning.

This case underscores the importance of verifying information in the digital realm.

The Challenge of Tracing Misinformation

The spread of misinformation, especially when the source is unclear, presents a significant challenge in the digital era.

This is not a new phenomenon in naval history; past incidents have demonstrated similar patterns of misinformation and their significant impact.

The inability to trace the original source often complicates the process of correcting false narratives.

Why Accurate Information Matters The ramifications of misinformation are far-reaching.

In the context of naval power, misinformation can influence public opinion, policy decisions, and even the strategic direction and support of naval operations.

Ensuring accurate and reliable information is critical for informed decision-making and maintaining public trust in naval affairs.

Conclusion The USS Bonhomme Richard video incident is a stark reminder of the critical need for accuracy in disseminating information related to naval operations.

As advocates for a strong and effective Navy, it is essential to recognize and confront the challenges of misinformation.

Ensuring that discussions and decisions are based on verified information is crucial for the future of naval strategy and national security.

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“Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power – ‘The Ocean’s Edge: Maritime Trade and Security Shaping World Order”

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

In this insightful episode, we have the honor of featuring Dr. Bruce Jones, a distinguished expert from the Talbot Center on Security, Strategy, and Technology, and the Center on East Asia Policy. Dr. Jones, known for his acclaimed work ‘To Rule the Waves’, brings a wealth of knowledge to our discussion on the critical issues shaping maritime power in our rapidly evolving global landscape.

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’.

Join us as we continue ‘Charting the Course’ for American Naval Power, exploring how maritime trade and security are pivotal in shaping the world order.”

In our dynamic global environment, we explore pressing questions:

    • Are we entering a new era of maritime power struggles due to climate change and intensified sea-based globalization?

    • What constitutes ‘ruling the waves’ in terms of maritime shipping dominance? How are factors like ship ownership, port control, and trade flow interconnected?

    • Dr. Jones discusses the vulnerability of container-based supply chains. Can he provide a specific incident of piracy or disruption that caused substantial economic impact?

    • What emerging threats, such as cyberattacks, climate disruptions, and political instability, are facing container shipping, and how can the US Navy and other stakeholders respond?

    • How will technological advancements like automation and AI reshape the future of container shipping, and what are the implications for efficiency, security, and workforce dynamics?

    • What is the current state of global trade, naval power, and the impact of climate change on oceans? What challenges and implications do these trends pose for the future world order?

    • Finally, how does the history of maritime trade and power mirror the patterns of post–Cold War globalization, with historical examples to support this relation?

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Naval Crisis: Aging Fleet and Aging Yards – A Blueprint for Modernization

To the members, dedicated friends, and supporters of Americans for a Stronger Navy,

It is with a sense of urgency and commitment to our national security that we delve into an issue of paramount importance – the revitalization of the U.S. Navy’s shipyards. This topic, often overlooked in public discourse, is a cornerstone of our naval strength and a critical factor in maintaining our status as a global maritime power.

The Navy’s four public shipyards — Norfolk, Portsmouth, Puget Sound, and Pearl Harbor — are essential for maintaining submarines and aircraft carriers, ensuring fleet readiness. Originally built for sail- and conventionally-powered ships, these 19th and 20th-century shipyards now struggle to efficiently service modern nuclear-powered vessels. Confronted with outdated facilities and technology, they face increasing maintenance costs, scheduling delays, and reliability concerns.

Recognizing the need for modernization, the Navy initiated the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) in May 2018. Managed by Naval Sea Systems Command with support from Naval Facilities Engineering Command and Commander, Navy Installations Command, SIOP aims to upgrade dry docks, optimize industrial processes, and modernize equipment to meet contemporary standards. This program is a critical step in transforming these historic shipyards into state-of-the-art facilities, aligning them with current naval operational needs.

Why This Matters

The significance of a robust and modern naval force cannot be understated in an era defined by great-power competition and rapidly evolving global threats. Our shipyards are the backbone of this force, serving as the lifeblood that keeps our fleet operational, advanced, and ready for any challenge. However, as recent assessments reveal, the current state of these facilities is far from meeting the demands of contemporary naval warfare and strategy.

Why America Should Care

Every American should be concerned about the state of our Navy’s shipyards. These facilities are not just about maintaining ships; they are about safeguarding our national security, ensuring global maritime dominance, and protecting our economic interests. A powerful Navy guarantees open sea lanes for commerce, deters potential adversaries, and provides a rapid response capability in times of crisis. The efficacy of our Navy is directly linked to the health of our shipyards.

Key Takeaway Problems

Two critical analyses – one from Forbes and another from Maiya Clark, The Heritage Foundation – highlight the pressing issues facing our shipyards:

  1. Aging Fleet and Infrastructure: Our Los Angeles Class submarines and shipyard facilities have aged, hindering operational efficiency.
  2. Resource Misallocation: There’s a notable misallocation of resources, with billions being spent on maintaining older vessels instead of investing in newer classes or infrastructure.
  3. Maintenance Delays: Prolonged maintenance periods are causing significant operational gaps in fleet readiness.
  4. Inefficient Modernization Efforts: Efforts like the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Plan (SIOP) face challenges in funding and execution, threatening their effectiveness.
  5. Human Capital Needs: A modern shipyard also requires a talented workforce, including engineers and trade personnel, to effectively utilize and maintain the upgraded infrastructure.

How Urgent Is This?

The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. With each passing day of delayed maintenance and underfunded modernization, our naval capabilities diminish. The world is not standing still; as potential adversaries advance their naval capabilities, any lag on our part creates vulnerabilities. Addressing these issues is not just a matter of military preparedness; it is a necessity for national survival.

Solutions

The path forward requires a multifaceted approach:

  1. Strategic Investment in Modernization: Fully funding and efficiently executing the SIOP is crucial for modernizing our shipyards.
  2. Prioritizing Fleet Readiness: The Navy must reallocate resources towards vessels and infrastructure that significantly enhance our naval capabilities.
  3. Public-Private Partnerships: Leveraging private shipyards for maintenance work can alleviate pressure on public yards and introduce innovative practices
  4. Boosting Workforce Expertise: Critical for Naval Advancement to complement infrastructure development, prioritizing workforce expertise is vital. The Navy should focus on attracting and nurturing skilled engineers and tradespeople through enhanced training programs and partnerships. This strategic investment in human capital is essential to fully leverage upgraded vessels and facilities, thereby bolstering overall naval capabilities.
  5. Policy Support and Advocacy: It’s vital for organizations like Americans for a Stronger Navy to advocate for policies that support these changes and raise public awareness about the importance of a modern and capable Navy.

Conclusion

As members, friends, and supporters of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we play a crucial role in shaping the discourse and action around this critical issue.

Our collective voice can drive the change necessary to ensure that our Navy remains the most formidable maritime force in the world.

We must not only understand the challenges but also actively advocate for practical solutions.

The future of our naval superiority and, by extension, our national security, depends on our commitment to revitalizing America’s shipyards. Together, let’s champion a stronger, more resilient Navy for a safer, more secure America.