A happy passing
When I was a kid, I always wanted to be a sailor. Just like my dad. I don't remember how I got it, but I had a 12" x 15" official Navy print of the USS Oriskany up on my bedroom wall.
Well, two days ago, the USS Oriskany went to the bottom to create an artificial reef. She was a modified Essex class carrier, modernized in the 50's to include an angled deck and steam catapults. She served her country proudly until, as the last Essex in service, she was retired in 1976.
She served her country valiantly and deserves her rest. I am happy to know that she did not wind up as so many other proud ships, under the cutters torch. You can read about her history here, here and here.