America’s future depends on more than ships and sailors—it depends on all of us.
This 24-part series invites you to explore how sea power, civic engagement, and global history come together in defense of our nation. Inspired by voices like Captain Charlie Plumb—a Navy hero and former POW— Charting the Course is a journey into unity, resilience, and what it means to serve, whether in uniform or as an engaged citizen.
A 24-part series connecting Americans to the past, present, and future of national defense—through education, civic engagement, and action.
Take the First Step
Free video & blog series – Click to begin your journey
How’s Your Parachute Packing Coming Along?
A Message from Captain Charlie Plumb – Decorated Naval Aviator. Vietnam POW. Lifelong patriot.
“Every one of us has someone who packs our parachute. And every one of us can pack someone else’s.”
Start with the Forward
Before diving into the series, we invite you to read a special message from Dale A. Jenkins, former U.S. Navy Officer and author of Diplomats and Admirals. [Read t he Foreword]
Why This Series Matters
China and Russia are challenging global security and testing American resilience. The U.S. Navy no longer just defends sea lanes—it safeguards undersea cables, space-based systems, and global supply chains. This series breaks it down for the American people.
- Understand the threats
- Learn from history
- Know your role
- Strengthen your country
Explore the 24 Episodes
Each post links to a full episode with video, blog content, and actionable insights.
- The Role of the U.S. Navy in American History
- Lessons from Vietnam: Stories of Resilience and Unity
- Technology at Sea: From WWII to the Digital Age
- Nixon’s Visit to China: Turning Points in U.S. Foreign Policy
- Naval Statecraft and Diplomacy
- Facing the Soviet Threat: A Cold War Overview
- Russia Today: How We Got Here
- China Rising: Global Dominance and Naval Ambitions
- Global Hotspots: Straits, Seas, and Chokepoints
- Life Aboard a Modern Naval Vessel
- Women in the Navy: Progress and Promise
- Recruitment & Retention: Youth and the Future Fleet
- Veterans’ Voices: Returning to Civilian Life
- The Navy’s Humanitarian Mission
- Cybersecurity on the High Seas
- Strategic Alliances: NATO, the Pacific, and Beyond
- Navy + Marine Corps Integration
- Budget and Strategy: Funding a Future-Ready Navy
- Uncrewed Systems, Drones, AI, and Naval Tech
- Civil-Military Relations in a Democratic Republic
- Environmental Stewardship: Protecting the Oceans
- Unsung Heroes: Stories from the Fleet
- Leadership 101: Character and Command at Sea
- The Call to Serve: Civic Engagement for a Stronger Nation
Bonus: Expert Perspectives on Naval Strategy
We’re proud to feature a series of exclusive interviews and briefings with top naval minds. These expert insights complement the 24-part educational series and dig deeper into strategic challenges facing today’s Navy.
- Dr. Steven Wills
- Dr. Bruce Jones
- Dr. Sam Tangredi
- Dr. Scott Savitz
- Bryan Clark
- Seth Cropsey
- Jon Rennie
- Navy Recruiting Leaders
- FY25 Budget Analysts
Click here: to Explore the Expert Series on a single page
Stay Connected
- Subscribe to episode updates
- Share this series with friends, family, and community groups
- Engage on social media with #StrongerNavy
- Volunteer or donate to support the mission
Take the First Step
Sign up for email alerts and updates as new episodes go live by clicking here. It’s free.
Together, let’s chart the course to a stronger, safer America.