DEAR EDITOR:

Today’s Navy is the largest and most powerful in the world with more than 330,000 active- duty personnel and more than 101,000 in the Ready Reserve.

The United States Navy traces its roots to the Continental Navy that was formed during the American Revolution. From there it played a major role during the Civil War by blockading southern ports and seizing control of the vital southern rivers. The Navy played a central role in the World War II defeat of Japan. This, after the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor where the Navy was terribly crippled with many of the fleet sunk or damaged, countless planes destroyed and many sailors killed or injured. Post World War II the Navy emerged as the most powerful in the world. Today the Navy has a presence and strength across the world. The U.S. Navy’s five enduring functions are: sea control, power projection, deterrence, maritime security and sealift.

Thank you to all the sailors for your dedicated service whether on patrol or in port.

American Legion Auxiliary members have dedicated themselves for over a century to meeting the needs of our nation’s veterans, military and their families both here and abroad. As part of the world’s largest women’s patriotic service organization, Auxiliary volunteers across the country also step up to honor veterans and military through annual scholarships and with ALA Girls State programs, teaching high school juniors to be leaders grounded in patriotism and Americanism. To learn more about the Auxiliary’s mission or to volunteer, donate or join, visit www.ALAfor Veterans.org .

KAREN SHESKO

Lake Milton

ALA Unit 737