The city of Somersworth welcomed some very special visitors to our community the weekend of July 16, 17 and 18 - the crew of the USS Somersworth.

Whenever I used to hear words like "Navy," "sailor," or "warship," what came to mind was a dull, flat image of grey water surrounding a boat that reminded me of the plastic models my brothers used to assemble when we were kids. I'd picture a lonely man laying on a bunk with his hands clasped behind his head, staring at a poster of Marilyn Monroe or some other fantasy woman.

Until now. These visitors, who travelled here from all over the country and overseas to be together, took me into their world for one brief weekend and made an impression on me deeper than the distance to the bottom of the ocean floor. I saw before me a brotherhood that remains strong even after 50 years of time. The kindness and love of these people will be forever etched in my heart. My admiration for them, and for all those in the military, has grown larger than life because of their visit to the Hilltop City. Scenes of sailors, battles and rescues are now a reality to me after hearing their stories and re-living them through writings which are all here in these web pages.

I am thankful that I was able to witness the touching memorial service that was held in honor of the lost crew members of the ship. The heart-wrenching drama of it all brought tears to the eyes of many who watched it - and shed a whole new light on what's really important in life. I saw grown men crying, and realized that our own Mayor, Jim McLin, stands true when he says, "I love this city." His feelings were displayed in his tearful eyes and his struggle to speak during the event.

The entire weekend renewed my faith in manhood and brotherhood and made me realize even more how lucky I am to be able to live in a free world. This issue of Somersworld is dedicated with love and respect to all the wonderful people who made these moments of history possible in our city. God bless you all.

Feedback?
Somersworld is the Hilltop City's electronic "front porch" - we are interested in your opinions and ideas. Please submit comments regarding what you have seen on this page to admin@somersworld.com. Requests for confidentiality will be honored.

Discuss this on the Somersworld Message Board!