This morning in the port of Aden, Yemen a *suicide terrorist zodiac full of explosives ripped a 20' x 40' hole in the side of the USS Cole. 4 US Sailors are dead and the crew is fighting to save the ship. "Damage Control" in a situation like this requires the crew to enter the breached compartments and stop the hull with mattresses and plywood backed by posts and expanding jacks. When the water is slowed, the pumps start to expel the water while the Damage Control crew continues to improve the repair. US Navy ships are built with a series of water tight compartments and there is a factor that can be sacrificed to remain afloat and hopefully operational. Training prepares the crew for the "logistical" application of resources, but the event is never forecasted, and has to be an instant reaction of teamwork and clear instruction while thinking ahead several rotations to develop options for the Commander of the ship. The DC crews rotate, and have special functions, skills and act as a patrol. Receiving a "Hit" from an enemy is never a signal to "give up" to the contrary, it causes extreme clarity of thought and passion for the cause. Knowing that 4 of your crew have died, sets the blood to pumping and overwhelming resolve is the reaction to the crisis! I pray for the safety of the crew, and that this time of challenge will cause a reflection on the important choices in life and faith in the Father above! D.Wheeler _______ To unsubscribe, send "unsubscribe rangernet" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] "Eat the hay & spit out the sticks! - A#1's mule" RTKB&G4JC! http://rangernet.org Autoresponder: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
