WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2023   –  7:15 a.m.

Are we witnessing the harbingers of the next Great Pacific War? Or do we have nothing to worry about?

Although he is not a spokesman for the US Navy or the government, Paul Chardoul is a retired Commander in the US Naval Reserve and a retired history professor who is trained in international relations, diplomatic and military history, and geopolitics. Using the available information on the Chinese and American militaries, which includes their respective capabilities and deficiencies, national intentions, and other variables – some of which can be manipulated – Paul will present his interpretation of this information to help answer the question…Will there be a Great Pacific War?

After two introductory presentations describing some of the strengths and weaknesses of both the Chinese and the American navies, we get to the future of a potential conflict. You will have a voice in this presentation by studying a possible scenario and coming up with a workable resolution.

Paul will distribute a different scenario to each table and allow time for each group to evaluate potential resolutions. It should be an interesting and eye-opening problem solving exercise.

We hope to see you! Please feel free to bring a prospective member, guest, or a conspiracy theorist.

Invocator: Eric Nelson
Introducer: Jeff Kissinger

The Navy

1. A famous Admiral and an equally famous General were fishing together when a sudden storm hit. When it died down both renowned warriors were struggling helplessly in the water.

   The Admiral floundered his way back to the boat and pulled himself painfully in. Then he fished out the General, using an oar.

   Catching his breath, he puffed: "Please don't say a word about this to anyone. If the Navy found out I can't swim I'd be disgraced."

   "Don't worry," the general said. "Your secret is safe. I'd hate to have my men find out I can't walk on water." 
   
   

2. Having passed the enlistment physical, Jon was asked by the doctor, "Why do you want to join the Navy, son?" "My father said it'd be a good idea, sir." "Oh? And what does your father do?" "He's in the Army, sir."