DONT TREAD ON ME --- A Chain of Revelation ---
Sometimes we start out on an ordinary sightseeing trip, only to come away with new understandings and deeper thoughts about our place and time.
One of the great things about the Puget Sound area is the Washington State Ferries system that connects so many wonderful places and things to do. A ferry trip anywhere on Puget Sound is such fun, that any excuse to drive onboard one of the many ferries, and do a little exploring in a new place is all the motivation we need.
One such trip is from Seattle to Bremerton. Our intent was just to check out a city, of which we knew little, and of course get in a ferry ride. What we found upon arrival, was to entertain and educate us profoundly.
Upon making our landing in Bremerton, after a breathtaking 60 minute ferry ride from Seattle, we were immediately drawn to a floating museum of engaging presence.
Moored in Bremerton is the USS Turner Joy (DD-951) Naval Destroyer, maintained and administered by the Bremerton Historic Ships Association. We were greeted by the most lively and knowledgeable people as we made our way onboard.
By the way, the top picture is Mary in the captain's seat on the Turner Joy. She was not permitted to maneuver the ferry from Seattle. Though pets are not really allowed on the USS Turner Joy, an exception was made by the congenial dockside stewards for our quickly Enlisted Seaman Ziggy.
Having been on submarines and naval vessels in the past, the experience was not entirely new, but what was totally engaging is the incredible historic presentation and exceptional maintenance of this defender of our liberty. Access was permitted practically everywhere on the ship, allowing a real feel for the experience of serving in the U.S Navy.
A point of immediate interest was a flag flying in the breeze, the First Navy Jack, showing a rattlesnake across thirteen stripes captioned "DONT TREAD ON ME." At first it seemed a bit out of place and time, knowing a bit of its original history.
Upon further discussion with the knowledgeable guides on our tour, it became understood that direction from the U.S. Navy ordered all ships to display the First Navy Jack during the War on Terrorism.
Just the consideration of this is sobering, without a doubt. We have been so successfully protected during the past decade, that it is easy to forget we are at war. In fact, terrorists just recently issued a communication to their followers to report the location and movement of all U.S. naval ships. The First Navy Jack has new significance today.
The history of this flag dates back to 1775, and the engagement of the British Royal Navy by our Continental Navy. The rattlesnake had become a symbol of resistance to British repression, and found its place on our naval flag. The symbolism carrying forward to today is clear; we will not be repressed now or ever.
The liberty and freedom we enjoy as Americans and independent contractors in helping people with their real estate needs should not be taken for granted.
Particularly now during the tough times we all are experiencing, we all need to recognize the reality of the world we live in today. We can be thankful to those who have volunteered to put themselves in harm's way to protect us and what our country stands for here and around the world.
We can feel the strength behind these words from centuries ago rekindled today: DON'T TREAD ON ME.
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