In February 2009, Lloyd and I had an opportunity of a life time; we were invited to participate in a DASO, Demonstration and System Operation, for the USS Alabama. When we were asked if we would like to see the testing of the missile launch systems we didn't think twice. We boarded the USNS Waters, the support ship, very early in the morning. Yes, there is 3:30 AM and it is VERY early. Just as the sun was rising we spotted the Alabama running parallel to us on the surface of the water. What an awesome sight. At around 1:00 PM we were in position and the submarine began to submerge. Several minutes after the sub disappeared, out of the clear blue sea, the missile blasted through the water; seconds later, it had disappeared into the clouds. About the time the missile disappeared into the clouds, that we actually heard the blast. A hour or so later it was announced that the missile had traveled the somewhere between the Hawaiian islands and Australia and hit the designated target well within range. The trip back to shore was highlighted with marvelous barbecue of steak, shrimp and chicken on "Steel Beach". As the sun was setting and rain began to fall, we watched the Alabama head through the straight toward port to drop of the dignitaries. The support ship had to tread water and wait for the sub to pass back through the straight. The sub was still top side as it passed very close the the USNS Waters, the sub was flanked by 3 military patrol boats as in maneuvered back out to sea. It was a moment of tremendous pride for both Lloyd and I. We are proud to be Americans and even more proud to have a son who is willing to serve this great county. This is a day and a memory we'll never forget.
