Many Chantilly and Northern Virginia area residents love to vacation in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. For those who travel a bit farther south, all the way down to Hatteras, and then to Ocracoke, there is lovely shoreline to experience, especially traveling through the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
There are two ferries, at Hatteras and Ocracoke respectively. The first is free, and the second has a charge. More about that in another post. I traveled through this area on a recent business trip to Charlotte, NC, and visited a few points that I thought our readers might find of interest.
One impressive stop along the journey was near Wilmington, NC to visit the WW II battleship, USS North Carolina. It is a bit of a stretch to run down to Wilmington from the Outer Banks. But there is no better living history lesson for the kids – and for adults – than to take a tour of this magnificent battleship.
ON THE DECK OF THE USS NORTH CAROLINA
Having been decommissioned quite some years ago, she was destined for scrap metal until the good citizens of North Carolina said “No way.” The lady now sits – in quiet grandeur – in her permanent home, as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who served on board, especially during World War II.
QUIET NOW, BUT SOUND AND FURY NOT LONG AGO
This is a classic WW II battleship. You know, it looks like anything within a hundred miles will be obliterated just from the sound of its massive guns. If you can appreciate vintage naval warship architecture, this is like a visit to the Taj Mahal. The sheer scope of these ships is mind boggling.
DON'T MESS WITH USS NORTH CAROLINA!!
You can walk through the many levels of the ship, right on down to her cavernous engine room. You can’t help but imagine daily life on board this floating city. Talk about no frills… no, this was not a Carnival Cruise. You get glimpses of the discipline and arduous nature of life at sea during war. It was tough as nails. This was supreme sacrifice in service of preserving freedom.
BARBER SHOP ON BOARD USS NORTH CAROLINA
I was reminded of the stream of heroic men and women who, from the time of this nation’s start, right on up to the present day, have served in the military, and in many cases paid with their life, so that all of us might experience the glory of living as free citizens in a noble nation. When you get a chance, tour one of these great ships and remind your self and your family of the never ending cost of freedom.
To get more details please visit the USS North Carolina’s website.