[svzephyr44]

In honor of Memorial Day I offer up this photo that brought back particularly good memories of Capt. Steve Ayres, USNR (ret.) once a "6", and all my brothers and sisters who served and have continued to serve defending our country. For you youngsters out there this is a "PBR" - Patrol Boat Riverine MK 1. Entering service in 1966 they patrolled the Mekong Delta in Vietnam. At least two sailors won the Medal of Honor while fighting from these boats. At 19000 lbs dry with a top speed of about 32 mph they were maned by mid grade Navy enlisted personnel (E-5, E-6.)
This boat is on display at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek/Fort Story (in the Norfolk, VA area.)

Fair winds and following seas

 

[rrsccoast]

28ft Hatteras hull

 

[svHyLyte]

28ft Hatteras hull

Unfortunately, those hulls were fairly susceptible to 7.63 and 12.5 mm fire, as were the crews.

 

[Barquito]

Unfortunately, those hulls were fairly susceptible to 7.73 and 12.5 mm fire, as were the crews.

Which brings us to the reason for Memorial Day: To recognize the ones we lost in war. Those who have, and are fighting for our country should be honored every day (especially veterans day). Today, those who died for our country should be especially recognized.