Earlier this month, I toured the USS New York (Wikipedia), an amphibious transport dock made partially from steel salvaged from the World Trade Center.

Visits like these are always moving experiences. There's the "cool" factor, of course. I'm blown away (er, so to speak) by the technological genius and massive power of our military. And, of course, I'm reminded of the cost of freedom and the sad realities that necessitate such force. A reality check, for sure.

Here are my photos aboard the USS New York.