Tag: navy

USS Bennington Memorial Oak Grove in Balboa Park.

A beautiful live oak grove in Balboa Park honors men who died tragically on the USS Bennington in 1905.
A beautiful live oak grove in Balboa Park honors men who died tragically on the USS Bennington in 1905.

Balboa Park is without a doubt one of America’s national treasures. Located just north of downtown San Diego, its 1,200 acres is the home of magnificent museums, gardens, architectural marvels, many recreational facilities and perhaps the world’s most famous zoo. The amazing urban park is so gigantic most visitors see only a small fraction of it. Some out-of-the-way corners of Balboa Park are enjoyed by locals who live nearby; other overlooked areas seem almost forgotten.

The USS Bennington Memorial Oak Grove is one such area. While many drive by it on any given day, as they travel along 26th Street just before it turns into Florida Drive, and a few joggers pass through the shady grove, I’d wager only a handful of San Diegans know of the oak grove’s existence or historical significance.

There are 66 live oak trees in this grove. They were planted to memorialize 66 men killed on the USS Bennington on the morning of July 21, 1905, when the gunboat’s boiler suddenly exploded and the ship nearly sank in San Diego’s harbor. No markers in the grove indicate the significance of the large gnarled oaks. (A 60 foot high granite obelisk stands at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in Point Loma, a memorial to those sailors who died on the USS Bennington. Most of the dead are buried there.)

The USS Bennington was a warship with a long and proud history. Commissioned in 1891, she was the ship that claimed Wake Island for the United States. After the boiler explosion in San Diego Bay, eleven men were awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism.

Earlier this year, when I visited an exhibit in Balboa Park created by The Daughters of the American Revolution San Diego Chapter, I learned the local DAR would like to place plaques in the grove to memorialize the USS Bennington and the men who tragically died. If you, your business or organization would like information about the project, or to help, you might contact them from their page.  Should this project come to fruition, I’ll be very pleased to blog about it!

View of the Bennington Memorial Oak Grove from Golden Hill Park, located near the southeast corner of Balboa Park. The Balboa Park Golf Club and Naval Medical Center San Diego are also visible.
View of the Bennington Memorial Oak Grove from Golden Hill Park, located near Balboa Park’s southeast corner. Balboa Park’s public golf course and Naval Medical Center San Diego are also visible.
Wooden footbridge along 26th Street leads to a little-used trail through USS Bennington Memorial Oak Grove in Balboa Park.
Wooden footbridge along 26th Street leads to a little-used trail through USS Bennington Memorial Oak Grove in Balboa Park.
Sixty large old oak trees memorialize 60 sailers killed in 1905 when the USS Bennington's boiler exploded in San Diego's nearby harbor.
Beautiful old oak trees memorialize 66 sailors killed in 1905 when the USS Bennington’s boiler exploded in San Diego’s nearby harbor.
Looking up through the leaves of the live oak trees at blue sky and clouds.
Looking up through the leaves of the live oak trees at blue sky and clouds.
These trees, honoring fallen men, remind us of a sudden tragic moment in San Diego history.
These trees, honoring fallen men, remind us of a sudden tragic moment in San Diego’s military history.
A commercial airplane flies overhead as it crosses Balboa Park heading in toward Lindbergh Field.
A commercial airplane flies overhead as it crosses Balboa Park heading in toward Lindbergh Field.
A jogger enjoys the shady old trees on a warm day in early October.
A jogger enjoys the shady old trees on a warm day in early October.

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Liberty Station Command Center’s historical exhibits.

Historic Decatur Road entrance of Dick Laub NTC Command Center at Liberty Station in Point Loma.
Historic Decatur Road entrance of Dick Laub NTC Command Center at Liberty Station in Point Loma.

Some time ago I visited the Command Center at NTC Liberty Station in Point Loma. Two interesting exhibits can be found along the main hallway that runs the length of the historic building. The Command Center was once the operational hub of former Naval Training Center San Diego.

The museum-like Stockdale Family Exhibit concerns the life and history of celebrated Navy Vice Admiral James B. Stockdale and his wife Sybil. The Point Loma Legacy Wing contains many displays that provide insights into the fascinating history of San Diego’s Point Loma.

Should you visit, here’s what you’ll see…

Built in 1941, The Command Center (Building 200) was the focal point of the base. These were offices for the highest-ranking officers, including the Admiral in Command of the Center.
Built in 1941, The Command Center (Building 200) was the focal point of the base. These were offices for the highest-ranking officers, including the Admiral in Command of the Center.
Looking from inside the Command Center southeast toward Preble Field and a large American flag.
Looking from inside the Command Center southeast toward Preble Field and a large American flag.
Inside the entrance to the Command Center. Various signs and free literature provide information about the converted military base and its many cultural attractions.
Inside the entrance to the Command Center. Various signs and free literature provide information about the converted military base and its many cultural attractions.
Naval Training Center, San Diego. The recruit story is one of personal transformation; a recruit's experience from arrival through graduation is the foundation for memories...
Naval Training Center, San Diego. The recruit story is one of personal transformation; a recruit’s experience from arrival through graduation is the foundation for memories…
In Memory Of Richard Dick Laub. Dick gave credit for much of his success to the G.I. Bill. His passion was the sea and fishing.
In Memory Of Richard “Dick” Laub. Dick gave credit for much of his success to the G.I. Bill. His passion was the sea and fishing.
One wing of the NTC Command Center today contains the Stockdale Family Exhibit. James and his wife Sybil are Navy heroes from the Vietnam War era.
One wing of the NTC Command Center today contains the Stockdale Family Exhibit. James and his wife Sybil are Navy heroes from the Vietnam War era.
Vice Admiral James Stockdale, long-time resident of Coronado, obtained and conveyed important tactical information while imprisoned in Vietnam
Vice Admiral James Stockdale, long-time resident of Coronado, obtained and conveyed important tactical information while imprisoned in North Vietnam
Stockdale was candidate for United States Vice President in 1992 on Ross Perot's independent ticket. During a debate, he famously said Who am I Why am I here.
Stockdale was candidate for United States Vice President in 1992 on Ross Perot’s independent ticket. During a debate, he famously said: “Who am I? Why am I here?”
The exhibit contains photographs and objects from James and Sybil Stockdale's family life.
The exhibit contains photographs and objects from James and Sybil Stockdale’s family life.
The Point Loma Legacy Wing at the NTC Command Center contains two walls of fascinating displays concerning this area's history.
The Point Loma Legacy Wing at the NTC Command Center contains two walls of fascinating displays concerning this area’s history.
The Point Loma lighthouse, erected in 1854, housed a principal keeper and an assistant keeper. In 1933, the lighthouse became part of Cabrillo National Monument and was restored.
The Point Loma lighthouse, erected in 1854, housed a principal keeper and an assistant keeper. In 1933, the lighthouse became part of Cabrillo National Monument and was restored.
San Diego yacht clubs offer camaraderie, friendships and sport. The first club, founded in 1852, was the Pacific Pioneer Yacht Club. In 1886, the San Diego Yacht Club was established.
San Diego yacht clubs offer camaraderie, friendships and sport. The first club, founded in 1852, was the Pacific Pioneer Yacht Club. In 1886, the San Diego Yacht Club was established.
Display case contains artifacts from the San Diego Maritime Museum, including model of a tuna boat.
Display case contains artifacts from the San Diego Maritime Museum, including model of a tuna boat.
The first fish cannery was built in 1909 at La Playa designed for processing sardines. Albacore canning started in 1911.
The first fish cannery was built in 1909 at La Playa designed for processing sardines. Albacore canning started in 1911.
Pole fishing for tuna was a major industry in San Diego from 1930 through the 1940s. Tuna pole fishing boats traveled up and down the Pacific coast for both albacore and yellowfin.
Pole fishing for tuna was a major industry in San Diego from 1930 through the 1940s. Tuna pole fishing boats traveled up and down the Pacific coast for both albacore and yellowfin.
Ballast Point is a small peninsula extending from Point Loma into the channel entrance to the harbor of San Diego. Cobblestones on the point were used for ballast by early trade ships.
Ballast Point is a small peninsula extending from Point Loma into the channel entrance to the harbor of San Diego. Cobblestones on the point were used for ballast by early trade ships.
The Point Loma kelp forest is part of one the largest kelp forests in the northern hemisphere. Giant kelp is a species of marine alga, which may grow up to 200 feet in length.
The Point Loma kelp forest is part of one the largest kelp forests in the northern hemisphere. Giant kelp is a species of marine alga, which may grow up to 200 feet in length.
Fort Rosecrans. In 1793, British Captain George Vancouver entered San Diego harbor. He noted the port would be better defended from the Point Loma peninsula.
Fort Rosecrans. In 1793, British Captain George Vancouver entered San Diego harbor. He noted the port would be better defended from the Point Loma peninsula.
Dutch Flats and the Marine Command Recruit Division. Plans were devised by San Diego Congressman William Kettner. A tidal marsh would be dredged and filled.
Dutch Flats and the Marine Command Recruit Division. Plans were devised by San Diego Congressman William Kettner. A tidal marsh would be dredged and filled.
Anchor and Sybil Stockdale Rose Garden next to NTC Command Center. Photo taken from Legacy Plaza near the center of Liberty Station.
Anchor and Sybil Stockdale Rose Garden next to NTC Command Center. Photo taken from Legacy Plaza near the center of Liberty Station.

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Evening photos at San Diego’s Festival of Sail.

Sailboat on a puddle of light behind the tall ship Pilgrim, as day ends at the Festival of Sail on San Diego's Embarcadero.
Sailboat in a puddle of light behind the tall ship Pilgrim.  Friday draws to an end at the Festival of Sail, on San Diego’s Embarcadero.

After work, I got off the trolley at Little Italy and walked down to the Embarcadero. I hoped to see a little of the Festival of Sail. Today was the first day of the big annual event!

Even though I missed the Parade of Sail across San Diego Bay, which took place in the afternoon, I managed to get a bit lucky! The day’s activities were over, the crowds had dissipated, and I didn’t need a ticket to enjoy a leisurely stroll alongside the many beautiful tall ships! Later this weekend I’ll buy a ticket during event hours and board the ships.  Stay tuned!

Until then, here are some photos of what I saw…

The Port of San Diego and the Maritime Museum are presenting the 2015 Festival of Sail, with lots of cool visiting tall ships, cannon battles, and other nautical stuff.
The Port of San Diego and the Maritime Museum are presenting the 2015 Festival of Sail, with lots of cool visiting tall ships, cannon battles, and other nautical stuff.
Photographer near the HMS Surprise takes photos of many masts along the waterfront beyond the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Photographer near the HMS Surprise takes a photo of masts along the waterfront. Many tall ships are docked just beyond the museum’s Steam Ferry Berkeley.
I saw a number of people wearing old-fashioned costumes, including these folks riding a bike and a big-wheeled penny-farthing along the water!
I saw a number of people wearing old-fashioned costumes, including these folks riding a bike and a big-wheeled penny-farthing along the water!
Members of the United States Navy came jogging down the Embarcadero as the day came to an end in San Diego!
Members of the United States Navy came jogging down the Embarcadero as the day came to an end in San Diego!
Falling sun behind evening clouds and picturesque dark masts on San Diego Bay at the Festival of Sail.
The sun descends behind clouds.  Many high masts, yards, ropes and fluttering banners add character to beautiful San Diego Bay at the Festival of Sail.
Two crewmembers work high in the rigging of the Amazing Grace tall ship.
Two crew members work high in the rigging of the Amazing Grace tall ship.
The 2015 Festival Sail runs through Labor Day weekend. You'll find it downtown at the awesome Maritime Museum of San Diego!
The 2015 Festival Sail runs through Labor Day weekend. You’ll find it downtown at the awesome Maritime Museum of San Diego!

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Lots of photos from Coronado’s Fourth of July parade!

Color guard leads the way during the Coronado Independence Day parade on Orange Avenue.
Color guard leads the way during the Coronado Independence Day parade on Orange Avenue.

While this blog post contains a whole bunch of photos, they only represent a small fraction of today’s Independence Day parade in Coronado. This Fourth of July parade is one of the biggest and best in the nation. Coronado is about as apple pie as a town can get, as it’s home to two very important military bases: Naval Air Station North Island and the Naval Amphibious Base.

Before the parade began, I walked about checking out the sights, smells and sounds. Hopefully I captured a bit of the experience with these photographs…

Welcome to Coronado . . . A Star Spangled Summer!
Welcome to Coronado . . . A Star Spangled Summer!
I believe these runners raced earlier in the Crown City Classic that started and ended at Tidelands Park, a few blocks away.
I believe these runners raced earlier in the Crown City Classic that started and ended at Tidelands Park, a few blocks away.
Almost everyone I saw was wearing clothing or costumes befitting a Fourth of July celebration!
Almost everyone I saw was wearing clothing or costumes befitting a Fourth of July celebration!
Someone wrote on the sidewalk with chalk: Happy Fourth of July!
Someone wrote on the sidewalk with chalk: Happy Fourth of July!
Tent in front of the Veterans of Foreign Wars on Orange Avenue was raising money selling parade-worthy treats.
Tent in front of the Veterans of Foreign Wars on Orange Avenue was raising money selling parade-worthy treats.
The Lions Club had a stand at Spreckels Park near the center of patriotic Coronado.
The Lions Club had a stand at Spreckels Park near the center of patriotic Coronado.
People check out art on display in Spreckels Park.
People check out art on display in Spreckels Park.
What could be more American than tossing a baseball while waiting for the big parade to begin.
What could be more American than tossing a baseball while waiting for the big parade to begin?
A shop window had a dog with a red, white and blue bow!
A shop window had a dog with a red, white and blue bow!
Humans and canines were all decked out for the occasion!
Humans and canines were all decked out for the occasion!
And what could be more American than a hot dog. A hot dog draped by a flag!
And what could be more American than a hot dog? A hot dog draped by a flag!
The businesses along Orange Avenue had all sorts of Independence Day wares and decorations outside.
The businesses along Orange Avenue had all sorts of Independence Day wares and decorations outside.
There is no greater love than this--that a person would lay down his life for his friends.
There is no greater love than this: That a person would lay down his life for his friends.
Kids with flags follow a big wagon full of lawn chairs, as the parade is almost ready to start.
Kids with flags follow a big wagon full of lawn chairs, as the parade is almost ready to start.
Finishing touches are put on the poop circles. Should a horse poop in your chalk circle, you win a special prize!
Finishing touches are put on the poop circles. Should a horse poop in your chalk circle, you win a special prize!
Tens of thousands are ready now along the entire length of Coronado. I think I hear the parade coming.
Tens of thousands are ready now along the entire length of Coronado. I think I hear the distant parade approaching.
Actually, it's the pre-parade entertainment. These performers are swirling and dancing to the delight of the crowd!
Actually, it’s the pre-parade entertainment. These performers are swirling and dancing to the delight of the crowd!
A colorful costume gets onlookers in the mood for a big, fun parade.
A colorful costume gets onlookers in the mood for a big, fun parade.
These guys are the Emilio Wallace Panamanian Marching Band of California!
These guys are the Emilio Wallace Panamanian Marching Band of California!
The Escondido Mounted Posse carry flags.
The official parade has begun.  The Escondido Mounted Posse carries flags.
Red, white and blue flowery carts are pulled by miniature horses!
Red, white and blue flowery carts are pulled by miniature horses!
The Grand Marshall this year was Vice Admiral Thomas Rowden, Commander, Naval Surface Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
The Grand Marshall this year was Vice Admiral Thomas Rowden, Commander, Naval Surface Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
And here comes the San Diego County tax collector, waving cheerfully to all!
And here comes the San Diego County tax collector, waving cheerfully to all!
Beautifully groomed long-tailed horses and a poodle strut their stuff down the parade route.
Beautifully groomed long-tailed horses and a poodle strut their stuff down the parade route.
A color guard precedes honored Pearl Harbor survivors.
A color guard precedes honored Pearl Harbor survivors.
A veteran who served during Pearl Harbor. He and other fellow heroes received the loudest applause all day.
A veteran who served during Pearl Harbor. He and other fellow heroes received the loudest applause all day.
A Pearl Harbor survivor waves to a crowd. Many were shouting Thank You.
A Pearl Harbor survivor waves to the crowd. Many were shouting “Thank You”.
Applause for the Pearl Harbor survivors as they pass on by for the Fourth of July.
Applause for the Pearl Harbor survivors as they pass on by for the Fourth of July.
Here comes the Marine Corps band!
Here comes the Marine Corps band!
An American military veteran rides his motorcycle down Orange Avenue.
An American military veteran rides his motorcycle down Orange Avenue.
Gold Star Mothers, with signs of loved ones killed in action. The people of Coronado understand that defending freedom can require sacrifice.
Gold Star Mothers, with signs of loved ones killed in action. The people of Coronado understand that defending freedom can require sacrifice.
Wounded Warriors are welcomed home.
Wounded Warriors are welcomed home.
Remembering our local fallen. Some gave all.
Remembering our local fallen. Some gave all.
San Diego Young Marines march. A future generation of heroes.
San Diego Young Marines march. A future generation of heroes.
An avenue of proud, billowing flags.
An avenue of proud, billowing flags.
Reenacting raising the flag at Iwo Jima, The United States Marine Corps War Memorial.
Reenacting raising the flag at Iwo Jima, The United States Marine Corps War Memorial.
San Diego heroes carry a large American flag.
San Diego heroes carry a large American flag.
Here come the Valley Center Rodeo Queens on horseback.
Here come the Valley Center Rodeo Queens on horseback.
Welcome Home Seth. Your country thanks you.
Welcome Home Seth. Your country thanks you.
Welcome Home Rodger. Our returning warrior.
Welcome Home Rodger. Our returning warrior.
Cool old cars from the Avenue of Heroes.
Cool old cars from the Avenue of Heroes.
Now that's an antique.
Now that’s an antique.
Of course, the big parade includes the Wells Fargo stagecoach.
Of course, the big parade includes the Wells Fargo stagecoach.
Even the Coronado Lawn Bowling Club was a part of the big Independence Day parade.
Even the Coronado Lawn Bowling Club was a part of the big Independence Day parade.
Meet the canine Vice Mayor of Coronado. I'm not sure which dog is the Mayor.
Meet the canine Vice Mayor of Coronado. I’m not sure which dog is the Mayor.
It's the Castle Park High School marching band.
It’s the Castle Park High School marching band.
Some medieval knights did battle on the parade route. Seems one has emerged the victor.
Some medieval knights did battle on the parade route. Seems one has emerged the victor.
Pink flamingos greet the crowd. I wonder if they wandered over here from the Marriott Coronado Resort's flamingo pond.
Pink flamingos greet the crowd. I wonder if they wandered over here from the Marriott Coronado Resort’s flamingo pond.
Coronado is one of the most patriotic places you'll find. Naval Air Station North Island and the Naval Amphibious Base where Seals train are located here.
Coronado is one of the most patriotic places you’ll find. Naval Air Station North Island and the Naval Amphibious Base where Seals train are located here.
An unrestored FJ-3 Fury from the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum at MCAS Miramar was towed to Coronado for the parade!
An unrestored FJ-3 Fury from the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum at MCAS Miramar was towed to Coronado for the parade!
Historic fighter jet heads down Orange Avenue as Fourth of July parade onlookers honor the troops.
Historic fighter jet heads down Orange Avenue as Fourth of July parade onlookers honor the troops.

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Planes and people on USS Midway’s flight deck.

USS Midway visitor takes photograph with selfie stick next to aircraft launching Shooter mannequin.
USS Midway visitor takes photograph with selfie stick next to aircraft-launching Shooter mannequin.

I hope you enjoy a few photos I took recently of planes and people (and helicopters) on the flight deck of San Diego’s USS Midway Museum. The historic aircraft carrier served longer than any other American carrier in the 20th century, spanning five decades from 1945 to 1992. Countless amazing stories have been lived by thousands serving aboard the USS Midway, and many of those stories continue today as docents and volunteers relate their personal shipboard experiences to visitors from around the world. San Diego’s unique aircraft carrier museum, now over ten years old, hosts over a million visitors a year.

Midway’s large flight deck, enlarged from 2.8 to 4 acres in 1966, today features a couple dozen restored aircraft that represent different eras of modern military history. The internet is jammed with pages showing and describing these aircraft in detail, so I thought I’d just provide a quick flavor of what it’s like to walk out on the flight deck on a typical San Diego day. If you’d like to take the cool self-guided tour of the ship, which I highly recommend, plan to spend at least an hour!

Lady walks past F-14 Tomcat fighter jet on USS Midway aircraft carrier's flight deck.
Lady walks past F-14 Tomcat fighter jet on USS Midway aircraft carrier’s flight deck.
Tourists at USS Midway Museum walk out onto one of the two horns that project over San Diego Bay.
Tourists at USS Midway Museum walk out onto one of the two horns that project over San Diego Bay.
Sign describes how to read Navy flag signals.
Sign describes how to read Navy flag signals.
Man lingers near F-8 Crusader, the US Navy's first supersonic fighter.
Man lingers near F-8 Crusader, the US Navy’s first supersonic fighter.
People sit on benches listening to a docent talk about launching airplanes from Midway's two steam-powered catapults.
People sit on benches listening to a docent talk about launching airplanes from Midway’s two steam-powered catapults.
Guy checks out A-7 Corsair ready to be launched from powerful catapult, which accelerated aircraft to 170 mph in about 3 seconds!
Guy checks out A-7 Corsair positioned to be launched from powerful catapult, which accelerated aircraft to 170 mph in about 3 seconds!
Young couple takes a look at E-2 Hawkeye, an Airborne Early Warning aircraft.
Young couple takes a look at E-2 Hawkeye, an Airborne Early Warning aircraft.
Looking south from atop the flight deck. Seen are the Unconditional Surrender statue, Tuna Harbor, and the Coronado Bay Bridge.
Looking south from atop the flight deck. Seen are the Unconditional Surrender statue, Tuna Harbor, and the Coronado Bay Bridge.
USS Midway visitors enjoy a sunny San Diego day near EKA-3 Skywarrior.
USS Midway visitors enjoy a sunny San Diego day near EKA-3 Skywarrior.
Visitors find out what it's like inside a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter.
Visitors find out what it’s like inside a CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter.
Peering through cockpit of HO3S utility helicopter at the nearby HUP Retriever.
Peering through cockpit of HO3S utility helicopter at the nearby HUP Retriever.
This HO3S Dragonfly, first helicopter aboard the USS Midway in 1948, is undergoing restoration.
This HO3S Dragonfly, first helicopter aboard the USS Midway in 1948, is undergoing restoration.
Docent veteran talks about how aircraft landed on the flight deck using tailhooks and arresting cables.
Docent veteran talks about how aircraft landed on the flight deck using a tailhook and multiple arresting cables.
Exhibit on Midway's LSO Platform shows how Navy pilots landed in difficult conditions, relying on optical guidance.
Exhibit on Midway’s LSO Platform shows how Navy pilots landed in difficult conditions, relying on optical guidance.
Navy pilot mannequin in flight suit stands near FA-18 Hornet, painted as a TOPGUN enemy aircraft.
Navy pilot mannequin in flight suit stands near FA-18 Hornet, painted as a TOPGUN enemy aircraft.
A-6 Intruder bomber on display near USS Midway's superstructure.
A-6 Intruder bomber on display near USS Midway’s superstructure.
Volunteers work to restore SH-2 Seasprite, beyond orange nose of H-34 Seabat.
Volunteers work to restore SH-2 Seasprite, beyond orange nose of H-34 Seabat.
The huge flight deck of the USS Midway Museum hosts visitors from around the world, special military-related events, decades of history, and never-ending activity on San Diego Bay.
The huge flight deck of the USS Midway Museum hosts visitors from around the world, special military-related events, decades of history, and never-ending activity on San Diego Bay.

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Japanese Self-Defense Force ships visit San Diego.

Three Japanese warships are visiting downtown San Diego's waterfront.
Three Japanese warships are visiting downtown San Diego’s waterfront.

This afternoon I spotted three ships of the Japanese Self-Defense Force in San Diego. They were docked at the downtown Cruise Ship Terminal on the busy Embarcadero. The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force must be training with the US Navy off our coast, although I find nothing about any joint naval exercises when I do a quick search of Google News.

A year ago I spotted three warships belonging to Japan docked in the same spot. I see the big training ship Kashima, of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, has returned. (Last year an article I researched referred to it as a landing ship.)  I suspect the other two are destroyers, like last time.

It’s an interesting sight you don’t often see up close, so I took a few pics!

A sailboat on San Diego Bay checks out an unusual sight on a cloudy day.
A sailboat on San Diego Bay checks out an unusual sight on a cloudy day.
Bow of big training ship Kashima, of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.
Bow of big training ship Kashima, of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.

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UPDATE! Creators of San Diego’s Navy Bicentennial plaque.

Corroded plaque shows tallship, ironclad, early warship, aircraft carrier and jets.
Corroded plaque shows tallship, ironclad, early warship, aircraft carrier and jets.

I have received more information about the origin of the Navy Bicentennial plaque situated on San Diego’s Embarcadero near the USS Midway Museum.

Last September, I published the blog Help solve a Navy mystery in San Diego. This fascinating plaque is passed by thousands walking along our waterfront every day. It’s located on the Greatest Generation Walk among other military memorials and monuments, but even today there is no public information about what the plaque is or where it came from.

After emailing the Port of San Diego, last October I published the blog Unknown Navy plaque: Mystery partially solved!  I’d been sent information that included a detailed description of the plaque.  I also learned that the plaque had been moved from the Broadway Pier.  But the exact origin remained unknown.

Then, out of the blue, two amazing things have happened.  Cool San Diego Sights has received comments shedding light on the actual people who created this very important, historical plaque.

The first comment I received went:

My name is William Abell and I was an ML3 aboard the USS Ajax AR6 and I helped create this plaque in the ship’s foundry in 1975. I have a certificate from Admiral J L Holloway III commemorating the plaque’s creation and my part in its creation. The date on the certificate is Oct 13, 1975. The plaque was to be a gift to the City of San Diego. I am now a retired police commander living in Monroe WA.

The second comment I received yesterday morning.  It directed my attention to this blog post:

I am Molder Chief Petty Officer Jesse G. Lopez USN Ret. The foundry crew from Navy Repair Ship USS Ajax AR-6, created the pattern which was made by Patternmaker Chief Carlos De Santiago USN RET and molded by myself when I was a MLFN. Petty Officer Abell was our Third Class in charge of the molders.

AMAZING UPDATE!

I’ve received detailed information about the plaque, including photographs of its creation and creators! Click here!

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Photos of cool sculptures at Liberty Station.

Mother by Robert Michael Jones appears complex and incomplete. According to the artist, his unusual sculptures represent ongoing life stories.
Mother by Robert Michael Jones appears complex and incomplete. According to the artist, his unusual sculptures represent ongoing life stories.

I still have a bunch of photos to share from my long walk around Liberty Station several weeks ago!

Check out these cool sculptures! I stumbled upon them while wandering about the North Promenade area of the old Naval Training Center San Diego. NTC Liberty Station, with its rich history, unique architecture, many museums and fun public art, is a great place to absorb a whole lot of culture and beauty.

Runner by Robert Michael Jones with strange muscle, bone and energy. Three pieces by this artist stand in front of NTC Liberty Station's Barracks 14.
Runner by Robert Michael Jones with strange muscle, bone and energy. Three pieces by this artist stand in front of NTC Liberty Station’s Barracks 14.
Close up photo of Ascend by Robert Michael Jones. His works seem like frayed, ancient images of human struggle from mythology.
Close up photo of Ascend by Robert Michael Jones. His works seem like frayed, ancient images of human struggle from mythology.
Archimage by Jeffery Laudenslager, whose sculptures often use odd geometry to boggle the mind. This piece, near the Dance Place, won an Orchid award in 1999.
Fuji San by Jeffery Laudenslager, whose sculptures often use odd geometry to boggle the mind.
Sol Searching by Alber De Matteis was part of an Urban Tree exhibition on San Diego's Embarcadero. It's now situated on Truxton Road south of the Dance Place building.
Sol Searching by Alber De Matteis was part of an Urban Trees exhibition on San Diego’s Embarcadero. It’s now situated on Truxton Road south of the Dance Place building.
Archangel by famed Mexican sculptor Alfonso Arambula Robles. It's located between two converted barracks at the former Naval Training Center San Diego.
Archangel by famed Mexican sculptor Alfonso Arambula Robles. It’s located by Barracks 16 at the former Naval Training Center San Diego.
Sisterhood by Ashley Gardner stands next to the Women's Museum of California.
Sisterhood sculpture by Mary Buckman stands next to the Women’s Museum of California.
Two life-size sisters greet visitors who wander about Point Loma's art-filled Liberty Station.
Two life-size sisters greet visitors who wander about Point Loma’s art-filled Liberty Station.

UPDATE!  Here are two more photos that I took on a sunnier day:

Archangel, kinetic artwork by Mexican sculptor Alfonso Arambula Robles.
Archangel, kinetic artwork by Mexican sculptor Alfonso Arambula Robles.
Light shines on Sisterhood terracotta sculpture, by artist Mary Buckman.
Light shines on Sisterhood terracotta sculpture, by artist Mary Buckman.

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World War II vets honored on USS Midway.

Grossmont High School NJROTC Ceremonial Color Guard waits for this morning's program to begin.
Grossmont High School NJROTC Ceremonial Color Guard waits for an important event to begin.

This morning I attended a moving ceremony. Americans who fought in World War II, members of The Greatest Generation, were honored in a special Veterans Wreath Ceremony on the flight deck of the USS Midway Museum. It’s one of several events taking place on the USS Midway this Memorial Day weekend. San Diego’s popular aircraft carrier museum promises to be a very busy hub of activity.

I took a few photographs of the ceremony. It was short, but very meaningful.

People cross flight deck of USS Midway aircraft carrier museum to attend a special Memorial Day weekend event. Chairs are for a Wynonna Judd Judd performance later this evening.
People cross flight deck of USS Midway aircraft carrier museum to attend a special Memorial Day weekend event. (Chairs are for a Wynonna Judd concert later this evening.)
Looking south over San Diego Bay from upper deck of USS Midway Museum.
Looking south over San Diego Bay from upper deck of USS Midway Museum. Unconditional Surrender statue can be seen below.
Pomerado Community Band plays music before start of short ceremony that honors World War II veterans.
Pomerado Community Band plays music before start of short ceremony that honors World War II veterans.
God Bless America sung with a deep, resonant voice. Many in the crowd listen with emotion.
God Bless America sung with a deep, resonant voice. Many in the crowd listen with emotion.
Guests are ready for the special Memorial Day weekend Veterans Wreath Ceremony to begin.
Guests are ready for the special Memorial Day weekend Veterans Wreath Ceremony to begin.
There are two wreaths. One commemorates those who fought in World War II's Pacific Ocean theater. The second wreath is dedicated to those who served in Europe.
There are two wreaths. One commemorates those who fought in the World War II Pacific theater. The second wreath is dedicated to those who served in Europe.
This honored vet performed his duty in the Pacific during the Second World War. With him are two other generations.
This honored vet performed his duty in the Pacific during the Second World War. With him are two other generations.
This energetic vet helped bring peace to Europe, defeating Nazis and fascists who threatened human liberty.
Also honored was energetic Stu Hedley, who is a Pearl Harbor survivor.
Vintage World War II P-35 fighter aircraft from Air Group One (San Diego Wing of the Commemorative Air Force) flies over during the ceremony.
Vintage World War II P-35 fighter aircraft from Air Group One (San Diego Wing of the Commemorative Air Force) flies over during the ceremony.
The wreaths are presented to the two representative veterans, who will toss them into the water.
The wreaths are presented to the two representative veterans, who will toss them into the water.
In a time-honored ritual and tribute, the first wreath takes flight as many watch.
In a time-honored ritual and tribute, the first wreath takes flight as many watch and The Remembrance Bell is rung.
Flowers and memories float on San Diego Bay on this beautiful Memorial Day weekend.
Flowers and memories float on San Diego Bay on this beautiful Memorial Day weekend.
A photo from the flight deck of the USS Midway. The historic aircraft carrier is used for many military ceremonies in San Diego.
A photo from the flight deck of the USS Midway. The historic aircraft carrier is used for many military ceremonies in San Diego.

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Weathered yellow arches and a bold blue door.

Photo of shuttered windows taken through dark, weathered archway.
Photo of old, shuttered windows taken through dark, weathered archway.

During my recent ramble around NTC Liberty Station, I did some nosing around. I took a few interesting photos of a lonely portion of the old Naval Training Center San Diego that has yet to be renovated. A row of old, weathered barracks along the North Promenade are vacant and locked shut. But if you listen closely, and use a little imagination, it might be possible to hear the echoing footsteps of naval recruits from decades ago.

The old Naval Training Center in Point Loma is a fascinating place with a significant place in United States history. The idea of training sailors in San Diego was first explored in 1915 by Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Franklin D. Roosevelt. When the complex was finally built in 1921, it was a modest affair, with several barracks, a mess hall, dispensary, and a few other buildings. It expanded over the years, and during World War II accommodated as many as 25,000 naval recruits. The center remained a vital resource of the United States Navy until 1997, when it was finally closed. Today around 50 original buildings along the beautiful promenade (which also includes the old base’s command center and parade ground) have been restored. Liberty Station has become a popular destination for shopping, recreation and a variety of cultural attractions.

In the following photos, you might note the architecture is mostly based on the Spanish Colonial Revival style, particularly the long arcades. The design of the Naval Training Center was directly influenced by buildings constructed for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition in San Diego’s Balboa Park.

Looking along the length of long-abandoned Barracks 5 at NTC Liberty Station.
Looking along the length of long-abandoned Barracks 5 at NTC Liberty Station.
Some old base signs still can be seen at the historic Naval Training Center San Diego.
Some old military base signs still can be seen at the historic Naval Training Center San Diego.
Buildings 18 and 25 remain empty. Most structures in the complex are renovated and have commercial or nonprofit tenants.
Buildings 18 and 25 remain empty. Most structures in the complex are renovated and have commercial or nonprofit tenants.
Simple geometry of functional architecture influenced by the Spanish Colonial Revival style.
Simple geometry of functional architecture influenced by the Spanish Colonial Revival style.
Peeling yellow paint on buildings where new United States Navy recruits used to train.
Peeling yellow paint on buildings where new United States Navy recruits used to train.
There's something strangely picturesque in this image of lonely decay.
There’s something strangely picturesque in this image of lonely decay.
With a bit of imagination, one can picture newly recruited sailors moving and marching through the Naval Training Center years ago.
With a bit of imagination, one can picture newly recruited sailors moving and marching through the Naval Training Center years ago.
This boldly painted blue door really catches the eye!
This boldly painted blue door really catches the eye!
Walking around NTC Liberty Station is like taking a small voyage back into history.
Walking around NTC Liberty Station is like taking a small voyage back into history.

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