Oct. 13, 2024

Honoring the Navy: Celebrating 249 Years of Legacy and Service

Honoring the Navy: Celebrating 249 Years of Legacy and Service
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Celebrating the 249th birthday of the United States Navy invites us to journey through its rich history, starting from its inception on October 13, 1775, when the Continental Navy was established by the Second Continental Congress. Experience the tales of its brief disbandment post-Revolutionary War, its revival under George Washington to counter the Barbary pirates, and the enduring partnership with the United States Marine Corps, whose birthday follows closely. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to all who have served in these storied branches, reflecting on the legacy of protection and sacrifice that has shaped our nation.

Join me for a personal reflection on the nuances of gratitude and service, spurred by an encounter with a young man at a grocery store. This experience was a poignant reminder of the complexities veterans often feel when thanked for their service, and the responses they craft to convey sincerity and respect. Whether it’s a simple “You’re welcome,” or a more assertive “Make sure you earn it,” these exchanges are windows into the shared respect and appreciation between veterans and civilians. As we honor the Navy’s legacy, we extend our deepest respect to everyone who has served, encouraging thoughtful appreciation for their sacrifices.

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Good morning.

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It is Sunday, october 13th 2024.

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Pardon a little bit of background noise.

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We've got some folks upstairs getting after some Sunday morning training.

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Today marks the 249th birthday of the United States Navy.

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Of the United States Navy, I had 249 years of defending life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness and going after anyone who threatens it.

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So our official birthday October 13th 1775, when the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution to establish the Continental Navy.

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That resolution authorized the purchase of two vessels equipped with 10 carriage guns, swivels and a crew of 80 men.

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About three minutes after signing that into reality, we had our first liberty risk.

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I'm not naming names, but that's the Navy.

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Not many people know this, but after the Revolutionary War the Continental Navy was disbanded.

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It was only in 1794 when George Washington signed an act to provide naval armament to fight the threat of Barbary pirates against American merchant vessels.

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Right, the Barbary pirates?

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Well, the shores of Tripoli.

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Right the United States Marine Corps, whose birthday is coming up very shortly.

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So just want to give a shout out to everyone who's ever served and Navy and Marine Corps.

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I've never been comfortable when anyone says to me thank you for your service.

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I think I've talked about that before.

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I'm not not ever really sure how to respond.

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About a week ago I was in a grocery store and there was a young man, very young man, looked to be like high school age and, um, I was wearing a Navy t-shirt and I went to check out.

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He was at the checkout line and, you know, nice kid, but but a kid, you know kid, nonetheless very young.

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And he looks at me and he said, um, uh, you know, did you serve?

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And I, I said oh yes, I did.

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You know, did you serve?

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And I said, oh yes, I did.

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And I always make it a point when someone asks to look right at them.

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I think if they take the time to ask, you know, I should at least have the courtesy to look right at them.

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So I looked at him, I said yes, I did, and, for a matter of fact, he just smiled and he said well, thank you for your service.

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And you know all I could think to say.

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I looked right at him and I was like you're welcome, you know, thank you.

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I mean, I don't know what else to say, but you know, very nice, very positive experience.

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I've heard some other veterans say the same thing.

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You know, they're uncomfortable about being thanked for their service, and I heard another individual say when he's thanked he will respond well, you were worth it.

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And I don't know that I'd be comfortable saying that.

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But I will tell you this One thing that I am comfortable saying if it's said to me in a patronizing fashion, if it's said and I'm getting a I don't know, maybe like some type of some type of vibe from the sender, I've got no problem looking right at him and saying, well, make sure you earn it and I'm alright with that.

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But anyway, happy birthday to the United States Navy and respect to all the men and women who've gone before us.

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Alright out.