USS Iowa: "We sunk your battleships"

The Battleship USS Iowa was built in 1940 and served the United States for over 50 years in World War II, the Korean War and the Cold War. The ship became known as the "Battleship of Presidents" after hosting Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt, Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush. No other battleship has hosted more presidents than the USS Iowa. The ship was also known as the World's Greatest Naval Ship for her big guns, heavy armor, fast speed and longevity. Today, the ship is parked at San Pedro, CA port and is open year-round for exploration.

One of the most fun facts about the ship is Victory the Dog (Mascot First Class). Read about Vicky's life sleeping at the foot of President Roosevelt, meeting Joseph Stalin & Winston Churchill, receiving awards & honors, and even going AWOL. Check out it out at: http://www.pacificbattleship.com/page/victory

Celebrate Seal Day!

The Marine Mammal Care Center at Fort MacArthur rehabilitates rescued sick, injured and orphaned sea lions and seals. Perched atop San Pedro, CA with an impressive view of the Los Angeles Harbor, the center treats dozens of animals annually. Seal Day gives visitors a behind-the-scenes peek at how the mostly California seal lines, northern elephant seals, harbor seals and fur seals are cared for in private tanks. Most of the animals are released back to sea after an average one-to-three month stay, but for a handful of others, adoption is the only option. Alex got an up-close look at lunch time with a full menu of fish served by volunteer caregivers.

So, what should you do if you should encounter a beached animal? Stay at least 50ft. away and keep others back too. It is a federal offense to disturb marine mammals. Don’t push it back into the water, pour water on it or feed it. Call the local animal care and control agency.

See you next year on Seal Day!