My big brother Joe is a Captain in the Navy. He is currently the Executive Officer on the Iwo Jima. The Iwo Jima is an amphibious assault ship. We found out that the ship would be in New York for Veterans Day and we planned a trip for my family to tour the boat. 

We rented a big van and loaded in five kids and eight adults. The ride into the city was pretty uneventful and everyone was very excited to arrive. We walked past the Intrepid on our way to the Iwo Jima. 

The Iwo Jima was docked on the other side of the Intrepid. 

We walked around and found Uncle Joe waiting for us at the gate! It’s been a little over a year since we saw him last.  He looked so handsome in his uniform. As we walked up towards the ship he pointed out little things that would interest us. 

The first thing we saw was the well. The amphibious ships can take on water in the well and then LCAC hovercrafts can be used to go to shore. We talked to the navigator of the hovercraft and John and Gillian were able to check where he sits. 

Next some Marines showed us some of the weapons they had on board. This was one of John’s favorite parts of the day. One Marine was very patient with John and showed him every weapon, how to hold it and shoot it. 

Our next stop was the hanger deck where planes are stored during travel. They also get maintenance done there too. But there were no planes just some more demos. John eagerly checked out all the onboard fire equipment and some more weapons. 

Our next stop was Uncle Joe’s office and quarters. 

We then headed to the officers dining room for lunch. While sitting at lunch we asked the kids what their favorite part was so far. John said “Everything.” Gillian said “The carrots, apple and cookies!” 

Next we went to the flight deck. There were three helicopters on the deck. The first was a Cobra. John, of course, was right up front asking questions and checking out the cockpit. 

I don’t remember the name of the next helicopter, but it was bigger than the Cobra. 

The kids climbed right into this helicopter. John on one side and Samantha on the other. Gillian was able to lean over to check it out too!

The next helicopter was huge. I believe it was called a Super Stallion. Once the kids found out they could go inside they went running. The helicopter was large enough for all of us to hang out in there.

Our next stop was the bridge. Gillian was so excited. Uncle Joe showed us where he sits when the ship is out to sea and where the captain sits too. He also got a stool and showed Gillian where the captain steers ship. 

The kids tested out the Captain’s chair!

And Uncle Joe’s chair. 

The bridge was the highlight of the trip for Gillian. She said “I don’t know why the steering wheel is so little!”

The kids had an amazing adventure on Uncle Joe’s ship (me too)! Thanks Uncle Joe!