Ralph Waldo Emerson was an American essayist, lecturer, philosopher, minister, abolitionist, and poet. He was seen as a champion of individualism and critical thinking, as well as a critic of conformity. Here is his poem Concord Hymn: By the rude bridge that arched the flood, Their flag to April’s breeze unfurled, Here once the embattled farmers stood, And fired the shot heard round the world. The foe long since in silence slept; Alike the conqueror silent sleeps; And Time the ruined bridge has swept Down the dark stream which seaward creeps. On this green bank, by this soft stream, We set to-day a votive stone; That memory may their deed redeem, When, like our sires, our sons are gone. Spirit, that made those heroes dare To die, and leave their children free, Bid Time and Nature gently spare ...
A couple of post ago I wrote about Naval Base Norfolk (4203), the largest naval base in the world. San Diego is home the second largest surface vessel naval base in the world, Naval Base San Diego. Naval Base San Diego is the principal homeport of the United States Pacific Fleet. The total on base population is 24 000 military personnel and 10 000 civilians. The following ships are homeported: Amphibious Assault Ships - 2, 4, 8, 20, 23, 25, 26, 27, 42, 45, 48, 49, 52 Cruisers - 59, 65, 70, 71 Destroyers - 54, 59, 60, 62,63,77,89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 97, 104, 106, 111, 123, 125, 1000, 1001, 1002 Littoral Combat Ships - 3, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38 Supply & Support Ships - AKR-300, AH-19, AO-187, AO-202, AVB-4