If your want to get a sense of the USA'a sea power from World War II and Vietnam, visit the Hornet Aircraft carrier in Alameda. From down in the engine rooms all the way up to the flight deck there is a story at every turn.

Up and down narrow stairs, in and out of holds and turn-abouts,you realize that not one set of stairs leads directly up or down through all the levels. The only conveyance of a powered type, is an escalator that takes you one level up to the landing deck.

Added to this historic beauty are combat and rescue helicopters, a jet and other aircraft. The restoration shop is in the hanger.

This is the famous ship that participated in the sinking of Japan's super ship the Yamato near the end of World War II.

Plan to spend the whole day with some great volunteer docents who have served on the Hornet or ships similar to her.

The ship's staff, engineers and docents are all volunteers. The Hornet is on loan (long term) from the Navy as long as she is maintained well. The small fee to board the Hornet goes to keeping her ship shape.

This is a wonerful day trip for the family.