On August 11 we had three days off and so drove up to Sequim, WA to our kids for the days as our son had invited me to go with his Boy Scout Troop for a tour of the submarine training facility and also of one of the submarines. Since I had not set foot on board a submarine since I left the service in 1968 it was too great an opportunity to let pass. We spent the morning touring the Trident Submarine Training Center and then had lunch in the mess area. After lunch we were taken by bus to the lower section if the sub base for a tour of the USS Kentucky. The USS Kentucky prepairs to leave port and get underway.

Those who have earned the title "qualified in submarines" tend to remain a band of brothers for life, but one does wonder if things are still that way for us older guys, as far as the modern crews are concerned. I chose to wear a hat which displays the submarine emblem, and that turned out to be the key that opened many doors. It turned out to be the highlight of the trip in the manner in which this old vet was treated by the modern sub sailors. I could not be more pleased with the experience! I was constantly greeted by the officers and crew, as well as all other staff on the base as one of them. Best of all was the greeting of the Kentucky's "Chief of the Boat" when he was introduced to me by the public information officer who lead the tour. I will never forget his words.

"Welcome home, brother." That really said it all for me.

There were many other interesting things and great experiences in the day, but none will stay with me as long at this one greeting.