Yesterday we visited the U.S.S. Midway, a retired Navy aircraft carrier docked in the San Diego Bay. After it was retired in the 1990s, it was restored and converted to a floating museum of Naval aviation history.
Our tour took us through the berthing areas, where the more than 4000 men lived during their 8-month long deployments. We visited the dining halls where crews served more than 12,000 meals per day. We walked through the engine rooms and laundry rooms, the officers’ quarters and the bridge.
But more amazing than the scale or complexity of this floating city and airport, were the dozens of volunteers who shared personal insights and stories. These retired sailors now volunteer thousands of hours, offering tours and commentary on the ship where they once lived.
Each one of them welcomed us with a smile. Each one continues to serve with pride.
The cramped quarters are now stories. The metal trays in the mess hall now a reminder of the sacrifice they made. The compartments and passageways, now swabbed by museum cleaning crews, a reminder of the importance of every task it took to support the mission.
During our tour, Sarah completed a little pamphlet, answering questions along the way about life on board. And, before we left, she was issued her Junior Wings by one of those men in yellow hats. As we went ashore, each of those men paused to salute her, to honor her achievement.
But this morning, sitting here in San Diego’s airport, allow me to return the salute. To the 90,000 uniformed men and women who currently serve in this city. To the 1.5 million active duty personnel serving today. To the 850,000 in the reserves. To the millions of retired soldiers. To both of my grandfathers. To the ones who didn’t come home. And to the dozens sitting around me this morning, waiting to board their flights home. Thank you for serving our country. I salute you.