Now here is a ship in the US Navy which is near and dear to my heart: the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD-6), a Wasp-class Amphibious Assault Ship. She is held in such high regards because my father served aboard the previous incarnation, a World War II-era Essex-class aircraft carrier, during the Korean War era.
Ten years ago, this ship was docked in Oakland, near Jack London Square, and she was open to the public for free tours. This was before 9/11, mind you.
Going aboard this vessel was a real treat for me, as I had not been aboard a ship of any sort since I was a kid living in Italy forty years ago, and that ship was the USS Forrestal (CVA-59). Being able to speak first-hand with the fighting Sailors, Pilots, and Marines on board and learn what life is like aboard one of these ships, especially when placed In Harm’s Way, is also something I never got to experience during my short stint in the Navy over thirty years ago.
After the tour was over, I called my Mom and told her what I did. I brought her a couple of souvenirs from the ship back to Michigan. She cried, and so did I. It is another way my family remembers my Dad.