I know this is a little late, but I want you to know that I didn’t forget your 234th birthday. (I know it’s October 13th!) I hope you’ll accept these birthday wishes.
You have 329,390 active duty officers, Sailors and midshipmen; 10,556 of whom are serving as individual augmentees. 138 of your 285 active ships are underway and you just commissioned the USS Makin Island (LHD 8), the “Prius of Navy warships.”
It’s a cheesy slogan, but you really are “America’s Navy: A Global Force for Good.” You’re around the world, protecting the maritime environment with the understanding that the prevention of war is just as important as the conduct of war. To that end your Sailors serve around the globe, providing presence, combating piracy, providing humanitarian relief, and making friends with people and other navies. You are an important ally in the task to protect global security and prosperity.
You’ve been an important part of my life too. You helped me pay for my degree at Notre Dame. You’ve given me the chance to travel and expand my horizons. Most of the time, you keep me in shape. (haha, I’m kidding!) Best of all, you’ve given me a job; a job that I’m very proud to do.
I wish you many more years of Honor, Courage, and Commitment. I wish you many more generations of proud, American Sailors whose actions will continue your heritage and traditions.
I’ll have a slice (or two) of cake in your honor.
Happy 234th Birthday!
Michael
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