Trip to Philadelphia and the Battleship USS New Jersey

12-13 Mar 2005

A wonderful experience!  We started our adventure with a trip to downtown Philadelphia to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.  Then it was on to Camden, NJ for an overnight campout on the USS New Jersey.  The evening's activities began as we stowed our gear in original crew quarters and headed for the flight simulator where we "took a ride" on a King Fisher at the Battle of Iwo Jima.  Following the lowering of the colors, it was time for dinner in the Enlisted Galley.  Next we had a first class tour of the ship.  The New Jersey is America's most decorated battleship having participated in four wars spanning almost 50 years.  The next morning we packed up and headed home, but not before a last chance to wander the decks of this amazing warship.

Waiting to visit Independence Hall

More waiting                                                                                      The distinguished Mr Maroney

Where the Constitution and Declaration of Independence were ratified . . . Independence Hall

Scouts from Troop MXVIII along with Louis XVI

The first US Senate meeting room

The "Father of Our Country" and . . .                     . . . Troop 1018 Scouts

Approaching the USS New Jersey

Dinner in the crew's galley

On deck

Looking aft -- the bridge in the background and two 16" gun turrets in front

Artwork in the turret

Inside the turret

Loading a 16" projectile                                        The targeting computer

Looking through the targeting periscope

 More artwork                                        The ship's helm . . . encased in a foot & a half of armor plating

Inside the Combat Information Center

America's most decorated battleship . . . the USS New Jersey

Richard, our outstanding tour guide

Snack time at the "Geedunk"

Spacious crew quarters                                                                        Our home . . .

The 1018 crew

16" gun turret

View down the starboard side

Saying good bye to our home for the evening

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