WHEREAS, Washington State has both a strong maritime heritage and a contemporary reliance on the sea; and
     WHEREAS, The United States Navy is the military service that secures sea lanes, allowing free flow of commerce to and from our state, and the service whose power projection promotes stability for our friends and deters aggression from our foes; and
     WHEREAS, The Navy has been a presence in Puget Sound since before Washington Statehood; and
     WHEREAS, United States Navy installations provide careers and economic stability to tens of thousands of Washington State citizens; and
     WHEREAS, Washington Navy bases support two aircraft carriers, more than 10 surface ships, 13 submarines, and 115 aircraft; and
     WHEREAS, Washington State and the Pacific Northwest are home to 21,000 active duty Navy service members, 16,000 Navy civilian employees, 6,000 drilling Naval reservists, 40,000 Navy family members, and 35,000 Navy retirees; and
     WHEREAS, Washington State based Navy personnel and assets regularly deploy around the world to deter aggression, relieve the distressed, and aid America's friends and allies; and
     WHEREAS, Washington State Navy bases are consistently recognized for their leadership and innovation in environmental stewardship, community engagement, and quality of life; and
     WHEREAS, Navy personnel routinely provide homeland security, disaster assistance, and rescue services to the citizens of Washington State;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate honor the Navy and bring warm greetings and many thanks to each and every person related to the Navy's work and mission in our state.