FWD: An e-mail message from someone in the Navy.

University Blue · Nov 7, 2001

"Dear Dad,

"We are still at sea. The remainder of our port visits have all been cancelled. We have spent every day since the attacks going back and forth within imaginary boxes drawn in the ocean, standing high-security watches, and trying to make the best of it. We have seen the articles and the photographs, and they are sickening. Being isolated, I don't think we appreciate the full scope of what is happening back home, but we are definitely feeling the effects.

"About two hours ago, we were hailed by a German Navy destroyer, Lutjens, requesting permission to pass close by our port side. Strange, since we're in the middle of an empty ocean, but the captain acquiesced and we prepared to render them honors from our bridgewing. As they were making their approach, our conning officer used binoculars and announced that Lutjens was flying not the German, but the American flag. As she came alongside us, we saw the American flag flying half-mast and her entire crew topside standing at silent, rigid attention in their dress uniforms.

"They had made a sign that was displayed on her side that read, "We Stand By You." There was not a dry eye on the bridge as they stayed alongside us for a few minutes and saluted. It was the most powerful thing I have seen in my life. The German Navy did an incredible thing for this crew, and it has truly been the highest point in the days since the attacks. It's amazing to think that only half-century ago things were quite different.

"After Lutjens pulled away, the Officer of the Deck, who had been planning to get out later this year, turned to me and said, 'I'm staying [in the] Navy.' I'll write you when I know more about when I'll be home, but this is it for now.

Love you guys."

And here's a picture of what that scene looked like: <img src="http://www.wnd.com/images2/germanship.jpg" width=85%>
Click to expand...

rockHEAD · Nov 7, 2001

what a great gesture.

rH

RichRocket · Nov 7, 2001

Uncle Sam-frantastic!!! Time for some German food soon...

Nomar · Nov 7, 2001

This shows that the Germans are now one of our best, and strongest allies.

America, UK, and Germany should just carve up the world between the three of us. j/k,

3fingeredgus · Nov 7, 2001

chills... I'm getting chills all over.. Very cool!

Not Chaney · Nov 7, 2001

Thanks for posting that, I needed it.

moestavern19 · Nov 7, 2001

sweet , i knew No one who speaks german could be an evil man

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FWD: An e-mail message from someone in the Navy.

University Blue Member

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