Delaware post adopts aircraft carrier; Post 5892 of Hockessin, Del., has boosted the morale of the crew of the USS Enterprise

VFW Magazine, April, 2002 by Michael J. Carlin

After the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, VFW Post 5892 in Hockessin, Del., immediately mobilized for action. As Post Commander Richard Blevins said, "There has always been a common bond between those serving in the military and the VFW. Members want to make a positive difference. We have to show military people that their sacrifices for the nation are appreciated by those of us at home."

To that end, the Post "adopted" the USS Enterprise, an aircraft carrier then serving in the Indian Ocean. I had previously served on the Enterprise and was aboard in the summer of 2000 during the filming of a Discovery Channel documentary about the 1969 flight deck fire, so that provided the Post with a direct link to the ship.

Senior Vice Commander Ray Johnson and past commander Mike Farley jumped into the project with both feet. Johnson stressed, "I take great pride in the men and women who serve aboard that ship. To me, they are all like my sons and daughters. I met a lot of the officers and crew when I went aboard the `Big E.'"

The Post quickly raised funds to support the ship. Packages were sent to Command Master Chief Norman Wood. They contained, for example, 96 decks of playing cards and 12,000 minutes in phone card time. All packages included a Post T-shirt. A note also requested that a picture be taken of a sailor holding a T-shirt, and that the picture be sent back to us.

The Enterprise was at this time striking targets in Afghanistan, so there was no word for two weeks. But at the last "Captain's Call" on Oct. 25, the packages were distributed aboard ship.

Assistance from the Post then expanded to include the crew's entire families. "We do have family support groups, both officer and enlisted," Wood replied. "But the enlisted sailors can always use more to boost their morale. Whatever donations you provide, we will ensure that they are used for our young sailors."

The Post quickly launched a fund-raising campaign. So far $1,500 has been raised for the Enterprise Enlisted Family Support Group.

"Please pass on my sincere thanks to your Post for the great things it has done and continues to do for the young men and women of the Big `E'," wrote Wood. "The support from such a fine group of Americans is overwhelming."

Post 5892 walls now proudly display both the picture from the ship and a Certificate of Adoption. The "adopt-a-unit" (or ship) program is a tremendous way to work with the armed forces.

MIKE CARLIN, a member of VFW Post 5892, served aboard the Enterprise between 1966 and 1969. If you would like some tips on how to adopt a ship or unit, feel free to contact him at this e-mail address: Tuscarora@keywest.kennett.net.