The USS Yorktown

While we were in Charleston, we had the opportunity to visit and tour the USS Yorktown and a Cold War submarine (more on the sub later).

It was incredible. Here's a photo of the ship:

Measuring an impressive 888 feet, it was difficult to get the entire ship in the frame.

The Yorktown was built in 16 1/2 months and was commissioned on April 15, 1943. In the 1950's, it was modified as an aircraft carrier.

It also recovered the astronauts and capsule of Apollo 8.

How cool is that?!?

Anyway, our friend, Josh, joined us and the weather was very agreeable. The stormy clouds kept us cool and didn't rain until after we returned to the hotel.

The flight deck was amazing. We saw an F-14, the Top Gun plane.

It was roped off, so we couldn't get too close.

Of course, the ropes didn't stop Jack.

This is a photo of Jack after we put him back on the right side of the ropes.

He also spun the propeller of another plane and got super excited to see a helicopter on deck.

Sam enjoyed chewing on his stroller straps during the visit.

On the hanger deck, there was a museum with even more aircraft, including at least one on loan from the National Naval Aviation Museum, in Pensacola, FL.

(Another fantastic museum, I might add).

Jack jumped at the chance to sit in this cockpit.

He's usually timid when it comes to steep steps.

Not this time!

I would love to say that Jack (and Sam) soaked up the history and significance of this aircraft carrier, but alas. They are still too young.

However, as someone who has visited concentration camps in Europe, I was humbled and awestruck at the lengths that the United States is willing to go to protect freedoms--both here and abroad. I am fascinated by the technology that has been developed by both the U.S. military and NASA that has greatly improved not only the quality of American life, but life everywhere. If you ever have the chance to visit an aircraft carrier, or any other museum that showcases the exceptional ingenuity and ambition of the United States, I highly recommend it. It will be well worth your time.