Sharon, Allison and I were blessed with a once-in-a-life-time opportunity to receive a personalized, guided tour of the aircraft carrier, Ronald Reagan.  While conducting the Praise & Harmony seminar in San Diego, we were honored to stay in the home of Mike Bucchi, an elder for the El Cajon Church who has also served our nation as Vice Admiral in The United States Navy.

Mike & Marilyn Bucchi

Upon boarding the ship, we were greeted by Rear Admiral Michael Miller, who proceeded to give us a very special, customized tour of the vessel.  Admiral Miller is a very kind, personable and articulate gentleman – not necessarily the pre-conceived stereo type of a crusty warrior.  However, I have no doubts that he is more than capable of handling whatever challenge he is assigned. 

Our tour guides also included the Weapons Commander, Dewey, the Operations Commander, C. J. Deni, and the ship’s Captain, Terry Kraft.  I still can’t believe that my family enjoyed a personalized tour led by two Admirals and the Reagan’s active Commanders.

The Captain pointed out that this ship is made up of two nuclear power plants, an airport on the top deck and a total crew of over 5,300 personnel -- a city in itself!  The average age of the crew is between 19 and 22.  Within special rooms on board the ship are tributes to Ronald Reagan, including part of the Berlin Wall, copies of his speeches and letters, a desk from his governorship in California as well as other memorabilia.

Mike Bucchi, a Harding graduate has served our nation in a most honorable fashion.  From his days as a Tomcat fighter pilot to his deployment as Battle Group Commander, Mike represents the finest our nation has to offer.  I am deeply touched by this man’s humble, gentle, spirit and a servant-heart that portrays the very image of Jesus.

Click on the photo album named U.S.S. Ronald Reagan in the right column, then click slide show..