I do not have a “bucket list” yet there is time to think of one.  The time is the present.

Wednesday past took me to San Diego, CA to join a group of DV’s (distinguished visitors) to the nuclear aircraft carrier USS Vinson, cruising offshore in the Pacific Ocean.

Meeting at the front gate of NAS North Island (Coronado), CA at 8 00 a.m. on Thursday morning was the beginning of 24+ hour adventure which took place on a C-2 Greyhound from North Island to the carrier Vinson cruising off the coast of Mexico, a 45 minute flight.

Landing at 102 mph, the C-2 stopped within 2 seconds, catching the cable on the deck of the Vinson with the tailhook of the aircraft.

Then began a tour of the aircraft carrier, from the flight deck to the bridge to the hangar deck to the inner workings of the ship.

Steep ladders tested one’s ability and agility for the next 24 hours.

Meeting the dedicated youngsters on the Vinson and its officers from the Admiral to the Captain to the Commander of the Chief Petty officers to the Petty Officers to the seaman made the embark most pleasant.

Friday afternoon had us depart the Vinson via catapult, from standing still to 132 mph in three (3) seconds. Landing took place 30 minutes later at NAS North Island.

Should you have the opportunity to go on an “embark” with the US Navy, grab it at once. You will have the trip of a lifetime, and meet some very dedicated personnel, who represent America extremely well.