In a feature article in the opinion section of my Sunday paper, I saw the article in my headline above. Well, Okay! The dollar signs weren't in there. But, as I read the article, it came quickly to me that they should be. Although I am a Navy veteran and have my sentimental imagined memories of the service, I cannot help but question the cost of doing what we do the way we do it on the high seas.
The reporter speaks with awe of the crew of 5000, the $5 billion price tag for each of our 12 carriers, and the complement of aircraft and other vessels needed to safely maintain the carrier on station.
The justification: According to Karl Thomas, the ship's XO (sorry, executive officer), "The George Washington's mere presence is possibly the strongest statement the U.S can make that it is committed to stability in the region--to keeping the oil flowing and that economy growing."
Expensive damn talk there, Karl! What about we get serious about energy self-sufficiency and do some talking with something less expensive than a carrier group. It's working for all the other nations of the world.
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