The FReeper Foxhole Remembers John Paul Jones - Jan 6th, 2003

http://www.chinfo.navy.mil/navpalib/traditions/html/jpjones.html ^

[SAMWolf]

That's for sure. I waited until after I got out to get married. If I had gone for a career it would have been different but it was tough watching the married guys have to say goodbye.

[SAMWolf]

Symbolism

SHIELD
br> Dark blue and gold are the colors traditionally associated with the Navy. The anchor interlaced with the officer's and enlisted swords symbolize sea prowess and teamwork. The AEGIS system's octagonal shape highlights the modern weaponry of DDG 53 with its anti-air, surface, sub-surface, and strike warfare capabilities. The white border with the thirteen black rivets represents day and night vigilance, solidity, and determination. The number of rivets, resembling cannon balls, also recalls the thirteen colonies and the naval guns used by John Paul Jones in battle.

CREST

The portrait is of John Paul Jones, father of the American Navy. His heroism against larger and better equipped forces established a naval tradition that has never been forgotten. The naval gun represents weaponry of that period.

SUPPORTERS

The flags were displayed by John Paul Jones on his warships. The thirteen star flag commemorates the most famous Revolutionary War naval battle, during which John Paul Jones captured the Serapis. The rattlesnake "Don't Tread On Me" flag reflects the temperament of the times.

Seal

The coat of arms as blazoned in full color upon a white oval edged on the outside with a gold rope and inscribed USS JOHN PAUL JONES at the top and DDG 53 at the bottom

[sistergoldenhair]

Another excellent thread.
I always enjoy the Foxhole.
Thanks for the ping.

[SAMWolf]

LOL! I was wondering when someone was gonna bring that up.

[SAMWolf]

Thank you, sistergoldenhair. We appreciate the feed back.

[PhilDragoo]

Thank you for an excellent overview of the founder of our proud Naval tradition.

Let there be no talk of "staying home" when it's time to face the broadsides in November '04.

The fight is on, from Baghdad to the Beltway.

Godspeed Swift Victory and Safe Return to the Finest Fighting Force on Earth.

Let them deliver fire to the enemies of freedom and themselves home to their hearth.

[68-69TonkinGulfYachtClub]

NAVY BUMP!
Thanks SAM!

[SAMWolf]

Godspeed Swift Victory and Safe Return to the Finest Fighting Force on Earth.

Let them deliver fire to the enemies of freedom and themselves home to their hearth.

Worth repeating.

[SAMWolf]

You're Welcome, Tonk.

[Diver Dave]

Evenin' SAM. Very informative history lesson today. I like your in-depth studies you bring each day.

My first introduction to the Bonnie Dick was when I was in boot camp circa 63. My Company Commander (DI equivalent) served in the Bonnie Dick. As we looked out the windows of our barracks we could see her moored over at North Island NAS, San Diego with the bright "31" on her island all aglow at night.

Later while serving in the fleet, we worked on many of the Bonnie's piping systems and we seemed to serve at corresponding times in WESTPAC.

It's always sad to read about a man-of-war being sold for scrap. My ship suffered the same fate after it had been sold to the Turkish Navy. Seems criminal to consider what was our "home" for so many years is sold for bid for scrap. Some of the "lucky" ships were later used as targets, sinking to Davy Jones Locker in one final act of honor to the United States of America and The US Navy.

On the bright side, perhaps some of that recycled steel will be part of the machinery that takes down SADDAM and Al Quida.

[68-69TonkinGulfYachtClub]

"It's always sad to read about a man-of-war being sold for scrap.
My ship suffered the same fate after it had been sold to the Turkish Navy."

Mine was sold to the Greek Navy in the 80's and jst recently scrapped by them.

[Light Speed]

U.S. Navy ....Power to Prevail

Aegis Destroyer USS John Paul Jones

Aegis Destroyer USS Arleigh Burke

[SAMWolf]

Some of the "lucky" ships were later used as targets, sinking to Davy Jones Locker in one final act of honor to the United States of America and The US Navy.

I agree I'd rather see a warship sunk to rest at the sea bottom than sold for scrap. Somehow there seems to be more honor in that.

[SAMWolf]

Great shots as usual Light Speed.

[SAMWolf]

Thanks for the personal perspective on the Bon Homme Richard.

[USNBandit]

While the crypt was being completed they kept him under the steps outside Smoke Hall.

USNA 90

[Diver Dave]

Always happy to provide the perspective. Always ready to hold high the honor of the US Navy.

My "home" for 3 1/2 years...

USS Piedmont (AD-17)
circa 1965 - Moored - Subic Bay, PI

[fatima]

Thank you for the ping.

[Victoria Delsoul]

On 23 September 1779, his ship engaged the HMS Serapis in the North Sea off Famborough Head, England. Richard was blasted in the initial broadside the two ships exchanged, losing much of her firepower and many of her gunners. Captain Richard Pearson, commanding Serapis, called out to Jones, asking if he surrendered. Jones' reply: "I have not yet begun to fight!"

Great response! Love it.

Thanks for your daily efforts, Sam. Much appreciated.