Greetings!  I am happy to let you know that the Seattle Council just adopted our 11th unit, Carrier Strike Group THREE - the 7th in the last 3 years.  The Adoption Ceremony, arranged quickly in order to be completed prior to their deployment, was done in the Flag Mess on board USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74).  The STENNIS, as you know, was previously adopted by the Council in 2006. 

 

This adoption was initiated through conversation with RDML Kevin M. Quinn, Commander Carrier Strike Group THREE.  Council President, Diane Jaffa, and RDML Quinn discussed this at the 2006 Annual Sea Services Breakfast (CNO as keynoter during Seafair Fleet Arrival ).  RDML Quinn expressed interest in having his sailors recognized similarly to those from other ships and adopted units that were being honored at the event. The Quinn family has a long history with Navy League.  After his service in the USN as an officer, RDML Quinn’s father served in volunteer leadership with Navy League for many years.  The Admiral is proud of his father’s service and noted this at the adoption ceremony for all those present.

 

RDML Quinn and Diane Jaffa moved this project forward to accommodate scheduling challenges.  Immediately following the Adoption Ceremony both of the newly chosen Senior and Junior SOYS were recognized with Council plaques and gift cards from Seattle Council Business Member, Starbucks Coffee Company.  Recognized by the Admiral were OS1 (SW/AW) Ronald J. Johnson and OS2 ( SW/AW) Edward K. Schneider, whose wives were also in attendance.  This brings to over 100  Sailors, Marines and Coasties honored by the Seattle Council and  Starbucks in the last year. 

 

On hand to participate were the Admiral, his staff, the CO of the JOHN C. STENNIS, CAPT Brad Johanson, and representing the Seattle Council & Navy League as invited guests: Diane Jaffa (Council President and NLUS National Director), Tom Jaffa ( National Director, past National VP and Council VP - Governance, Events & Military Liaison), Bill Larson (Council President-Elect) and Glenda Larson (Council VP- Communications & Administration).  Guests were served lunch with the Admiral and his wife, Barbara, who was presented with an "Honorary Membership."

  

Warm regards,  

Thomas E. Jaffa, CTP

National Director

Council VP - governance, Events & Military Liaison