Annual Reminder to Check your Readiness

It seems like every year or so I put out a public service announcement to remind people that they need to have the minimum amount of preparedness for themselves and their family. Are you ready? Are you sure? – theleansubmariner All of us are dependent on services provided by the government and well regulated industry. […]

Social Distancing Masters of the Universe

In this time of trial, I feel sad for those people who are finding themselves isolated from their friends and family. I especially feel kind of bad that I really don’t feel all that isolated myself. I have a great wife and a very creative cat named Moses. To be honest, I really feel like […]

You are late for watch – why aren’t you ready yet?

You are late for watch Dreaded words. Despite your best efforts, you find yourself facing a hostile shipmate. Time on a submarine is precious and you just robbed him of some of his by being late. Let’s be honest. It happens to all of us. We think we are going to be ready for the […]

Have you driven a Ford (submarine) lately? (Probably not and there’s a good reason for it)

1915 – The world at war In September of 1915, the war in Europe was over a year old. The combatants had long ago determined that the war was not going to be brought to a quick conclusion. The British Fleet successfully blockaded Germany and her allies while the German U-Boat war was fully implemented […]

Why do you need an AR 15?

Warning: If you are easily triggered, this may not be a good article for you to read. Why do you need an AR 15? In the wake of the latest horrific shooting, the topic for many people seems to focus on why someone would need an AR 15. Depending on the political and philosophical background […]

The Cost of Freedom – Letter to the Editor Pittsburgh Post Gazette

The Cost of Freedom To the Editor Pittsburgh has long been a source of the materials and equipment necessary for our national defense. The propulsion equipment for submarines and aircraft carriers comes from manufacturers in the Steel Valley as it has for generations. A strong fleet ensures freedom of the seas and guarantees the level […]

Summer 2017 USNL Pittsburgh President’s Letter – The Home Front

The Home Front Greetings to all of the Navy League Members and those who have yet to join. I am always grateful for the membership we have and a bit curious why there aren’t more of us. The Pittsburgh Council of the Navy League of the United States is an active group that supports the […]

“These are the times that try men’s souls”

“In time of crisis when the future is in the balance, we come to understand, with full recognition and devotion, what this Nation is, and what we owe to it.” 75 Years ago the nation found itself in a very bad state. This is a copy of President Roosevelt’s Address over the radio in celebration […]

Should I stay or should I go?

One of the questions asked so much in the recent lead up to the storm is “Should I stay or should I go”. The obvious answer is to follow the directions of the emergency management officials. Much of the loss of life and deprivation after Katrina was too many people in the wrong place at […]

December 10 – The Loss of the First Sealion

The attack at Pearl Harbor was barely finished when the predicted attacks in the Philippines began. In order for the Japanese empire to complete their planned establishment of a Greater East Asia Co-prosperity Sphere, the Philippines would have to be “liberated” from the American’s influence. A casual study of that part of the world shows […]