The Big E and Admiral Mullen

At the end of September, I had two exciting days.  First, on Sept. 29, Pat Hackbarth and I went aboard the Big E in Norfolk, Virginia! The grandaddy of all aircraft carriers, the USS Enterprise is the first nuclear-powered carrier, and she celebrates her 50th birthday next month.  We met with LCDR Sarah Self-Kyler, one of the best PAOs in the Navy, and hope to work with them on documenting their incredible, rich history.


The next day, I had the privilege of attending Admiral Mullen's farewell tribute!  Security there reminded me of the opening ceremony for the Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, just months after 9/11.  President Obama, Vice President Biden, and Secretary of Defense Gates were all there, along with ADM Mullen and our new Chairman, GEN Dempsey.  It was a moving ceremony, and a fitting tribute to a great American.  What an honor to be present at both events!