What a wonderful fun weekend we had in Norfolk! We went to the commissioning of the aircraft carrier USS GEORGE H W BUSH. We have a nephew-in-law who is the commanding officers secretary and he got us passes. We went to Norfolk with blue tickets and when we got there we found out we had gold passes. The difference was awesome. Better parking, better seating, free breakfast and lunch in a heated tent. We also received fleece blankets which were wrapped in a velcro holder with the insignia of the ship on it, plus a book to keep. We thought we were high class! We sat two rows from ship. Some of the crew stood at parade rest for almost 2 hours. One sailor was going to sleep on his feet and leaning to one side and jumping when he got to close to sleep. We had some good laughs from him!!
Of course George H W Bush (41) was there with Barbara. Also in attendance were President George W, and Laura, VP Dick Cheney and Lynn, Sec of Defense Gates, Sec. of Navy Winter, daughter of 41 and Barbara, Dorothy Bush Koch. She was the sponsor of the ship and called the ship to life. Other people there were, Gov. Kaine, VA, Condelessa Rice, SCJ Clarence Thomas, Joint Chiefs of Staff Mullen.
We made lots of pictures and few short videos. It was a awesome experience and great to see President Bush before he leaves office.
The video is from what they call to man the rails. This takes place after the ship is called to life. The crew in front of us started running up the steps and standing at the rails and all other points on the ship. It was very emotional for me since my Dad, Uncle and husband have all served on a ship at about the same ages as these young men and women.
The ship's motto is FREEDOM AT WORK. It will be in service for about 50 yrs. This was the last of this type of aircraft carrier (NIMITZ). History all around. Both Bush men gave great speeches. As did all the others who spoke.
Donnie got to shake hands and have his picture made with the Joint chief of staff. He was excited.
There is a tradition of challenge coins in the navy. Donnie carried his with him and he gave one, by Jonathan, to George HW and Pres. Bush. When Jonathan handed the President the coin and told him about Donnie, he in return reached in his pocket and gave Jonathan, for Donnie and pair of President Seal cufflinks which are engraved with George Bush on the back. We were not expecting that, but are very proud on them! I still think I could make earrings out of them, but Donnie said they weren't given to me!!!!! HMMMM!!
To see all the pictures you can go to and sign up at snapfish.
There are several videos on YOUTUBE, one is mine, the rest from others there.
