Admiral Fletcher AH

[Bruce Day]

Or the Admiral Fletcher AH with the sailing ship on the horizon.

This belonged to Frank Friday Fletcher, USNA grad, Medal of Honor awardee. The Fletcher class of destroyers of WWII fame, the destroyers that took on the Japanese battleships, were named after him. His son commanded USS Midway. Much has been written about the little destroyers, with three of them turning to cover the retreating US fleet and only one surviving yet turning back the whole Japanese fleet. One was sunk after steaming full ahead toward the battleships with the bridge gone and aflame, one gun turret remaining and firing, most of the crew dead and the captain standing on the fantail shouting commands down through an open hatch to the engine room.

[Bruce Day]

Bringing back to the top after several years absence. I know we have some military people here, and particularly USN, who would appreciate the heritage of this fine Parker.

I know of only one other Parker featuring a sailing ship. The other one is a skipjack at sail.

[Pete Lester]

The story of the destroyer USS Johnston and destroyer escort USS Samuel B. Roberts in the battle of Leyte Gulf is an incredible saga of courage in the face of overwhelming odds and one few people today are aware of.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dj6cPaFGkWY

[Bruce Day]

My annual Memorial Day post returning to the top the Admiral Fletcher A grade and some of the story of the Fletcher class of destroyers. A salute to the U S Navy, from an Air Force pilot retiree.

[Bob Hardison]

Thanks Bruce. Just got up from watching the movie Midway. I try to watch it over every Memorial Day weekend. We have a lot to be thankful for because of the many that have protected our freedom. This is a movie but it helps me remember and appreciate our service members that gave it all. Bob

[Mark Landskov]

Thanks, Bruce:cheers:

[Bob Hayes]

Thanks to all out there who served and are currently serving.Beautiful gun and would love to see it in person someday.I also saw Midway yesterday and several others.I can watch those movies over and over again.Saw another yesterday that I had not seen.I strongly urge everyone here to seek it out.It was Murphy the Protector and aired on the Sportsman Channel.A movie about the seals came out a year or so ago.I'm sure you've all heard of Marcus Luttrell it was based on his book.
Anyhow Murphy the protector is a must see.It will restore faith in the country,just don't watch any of the usual crap after for at least an hour.

[Bruce Day]

Murphy the Protector ?

Our Bill?

[Bob Hayes]

Michael P. Murphy a US Navy Seal
He was one of 4 on mission in Afghanistan.Correction its Murph the Protector.

[Bruce Day]

Oh. Our Bill Murphy was Army.