On this episode of WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey Podcast, we proudly hosted Rear Admiral Kenneth R. Blackmon, Vice Commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command.

Admiral Blackmon sat down with Battleship CEO & Host Marshall Spevak for a dynamic conversation tracing his remarkable journey—from witnessing the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait as a junior officer aboard USS DAVID R. RAY (DD-961), to rising through the ranks from Ensign to Flag Officer. Over more than three decades in uniform, RADM Blackmon has served in every major theater of operations worldwide, bringing a truly global perspective on leadership and service.

We explore his career highlights, including his tenure as Deputy Commander of the U.S. 3rd Fleet—the same fleet once led in World War II by New Jersey native Fleet Admiral Bull Halsey from the Flag Bridge of Battleship New Jersey—and his current leadership role in preparing for the Navy and Marine Corps’ 250th Birthday celebration, coming to Philadelphia and South Jersey October 9–16, 2025.

If you want a firsthand look at naval leadership, history, and the exciting plans for the 250th, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Admiral Blackmon is not only a great friend of the Battleship, but also a passionate leader of America’s “away team.”

For more news and info about the upcoming Homecoming 250 celebrations this Fall, please visit:

https://www.battleshipnewjersey.org/homecoming-250-events/

homecoming250.org

navy.mil/Navy-250

WETSU: A Battleship NJ Podcast is proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative ELEC 825.

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On this episode of WETSU: A Battleship New Jersey Podcast, host and CEO Marshall Spevak sits down with CDR Skip Leeson, who served as Commanding Officer of the USS NEW JERSEY (BB-62) Reserve Unit in the 1980s.

In this wide-ranging conversation, CDR Leeson reflects on his active-duty service off the coast of Vietnam—where his ship was part of the New Jersey’s protective convoy near the DMZ—and shares remarkable insights from one of the most significant chapters in the battleship’s modern history. He recounts organizing and executing the largest peacetime crew relief in U.S. Navy history during the New Jersey’s 190-day deployment off Beirut, Lebanon, in 1983–1984.

From the raw power of 16-inch guns to the camaraderie of sailors serving aboard a legendary warship, CDR Leeson offers a firsthand look at life on the battleship and the pivotal moments that shaped its Cold War service. Join us for another unforgettable conversation with a NEW JERSEY veteran. WETSU!

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On this episode of WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey Podcast, host Marshall Spevak sits down with author, historian, and USS New Jersey (BB-62) veteran Paul Stillwell—one of the foremost authorities on America’s most decorated battleship.

In this engaging conversation, Paul reflects on his 30 years of service in the U.S. Navy, shares vivid stories from his time as a crew member aboard the New Jersey, and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the ship’s third decommissioning.

Paul also previews his highly anticipated new book, Battleship New Jersey: The Complete History, releasing August 5th, 2025—a definitive second edition chronicling the legacy, heroism, and the 45,000 sailors and Marines who served aboard this iconic vessel. You can preorder a copy of his new book here.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Paul’s work, fascinated by life at sea, or simply want to hear untold stories from the decks of the Big J, you won’t want to miss this episode of WETSU.

WETSU: A Battleship NJ Podcast is proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative ELEC 825.

Use the code WETSU for 10% off your copy of Battleship New Jersey: The Complete History.

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On this episode of WETSU: A Battleship New Jersey Podcast, we’re giving the people exactly what they’ve been asking for: an in-depth conversation with our very own Curator, Ryan Szimanski!

Join host Marshall Spevak as he sits down with Ryan to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to care for, interpret, and share the story of America’s most decorated battleship. From the massive undertaking of dry docking a 45,000-ton historic warship, to the surprising artifacts and hidden treasures that turn up in the ship’s steel corridors, Ryan shares his unique perspective on preserving living naval history.

They’ll also dive into what it’s like balancing curatorial duties with building a thriving online community — including behind-the-scenes insights on growing the Battleship New Jersey’s YouTube channel to more than 270,000 subscribers worldwide. Expect plenty of fascinating ship stories, some laughs, and a few sneak peeks at what’s next for the Battleship’s collections and restoration efforts.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of Ryan’s YouTube videos or just curious about what it takes to keep this historic vessel shipshape, you won’t want to miss this special, curator-focused episode of WETSU. Tune in now and get your fix of big guns, bigger stories, and the dedicated crew who keep naval history alive!

WETSU: A Battleship NJ Podcast is proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative ELEC 825.

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On this episode of WETSU: A Battleship New Jersey Podcast, CEO and Host Marshall Spevak welcomes Ken Kersch, a proud veteran of the USS NEW JERSEY (BB-62) who served during her Vietnam War deployment.

A plankowner from the ship’s 1968 recommissioning, Ken personifies the WETSU spirit—"We Eat This Stuff Up"—from his days preparing the Battleship for war to standing the watch off the coast of North Vietnam. In this compelling and heartfelt conversation, Ken shares firsthand stories of the ship's activation, life as part of the pre-commissioning crew, combat operations in theater, and the pride of serving aboard America’s most decorated battleship.

Now, more than 50 years later, Ken continues his service as a member of the museum staff, embodying our mission to honor veterans, preserve their legacy, and inspire future generations.

WETSU: A Battleship NJ Podcast is proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative ELEC 825.

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On this episode of WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey Podcast, CEO and Host Marshall Spevak welcomes Commander Carne Livingston, USN, for an engaging and insightful discussion that captures the breadth of a distinguished naval career.

CDR Livingston exemplifies the phrase “join the Navy, see the world,” having served across a diverse array of platforms—including landing helicopter docks (LHDs), amphibious transport docks (LPDs), and guided-missile destroyers (DDGs). Most notably, he served as the Plankowner Commanding Officer of USS JOHN BASILONE (DDG-122), which was officially commissioned into active service in November 2024.

In this comprehensive conversation, CDR Livingston recounts key moments from his time at sea, offers a firsthand perspective on the complex process of bringing a new warship into the fleet, and reflects on the connection between the crew of JOHN BASILONE and the historic Battleship New Jersey.

This episode offers a rare look into the operational realities and leadership demands of modern naval service—through the lens of a seasoned commander and trusted steward of naval tradition. Don’t miss this compelling dialogue with CDR Carne Livingston, a respected officer and steadfast supporter of the Battleship New Jersey.

WETSU: A Battleship NJ Podcast is now proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative / ELEC 825.

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In this compelling episode of WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey Podcast, CEO and Host Marshall Spevak welcomes a distinguished guest—Brigadier General Yvonne L. Mays, USAF, The Adjutant General and Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Military & Veterans Affairs.

As New Jersey’s highest-ranking military official, Brig. Gen. Mays commands over 8,400 citizen soldiers and airmen of the New Jersey National Guard while overseeing the state’s Veterans Affairs operations. She joins the podcast to reflect on her remarkable career in uniform and to share strategic insights into the Guard’s wide-ranging missions—from the 177th Fighter Wing in Atlantic City to the 108th Air Wing at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.

Together, they explore the National Guard’s critical dual role in state and federal operations and the Department’s unwavering commitment to New Jersey’s veteran community. The discussion also highlights DMAVA’s support for recent milestones, including the Battleship New Jersey’s dry docking and the commissioning of the USS New Jersey (SSN-796) submarine.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that underscores the strength of New Jersey’s military leadership and its enduring impact on the state and the nation.

WETSU: A Battleship NJ Podcast is now proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative / ELEC 825.

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In this poignant and powerful episode of WETSU: A Battleship New Jersey Podcast, host Marshall Spevak welcomes a truly remarkable guest—Assemblywoman and Gold Star Mother, Melinda Kane.

Melinda shares the deeply personal story of her son, Marine LCpl Jeremy Kane, who was killed in action during combat operations in Afghanistan in 2010. With courage and grace, she reflects on the profound grief that followed—and the strength it took to transform that loss into a lifelong mission of service.

From her work with the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (T.A.P.S.) to her ongoing efforts in public service, Melinda has become a passionate advocate for military families, veterans, and surviving loved ones. Now serving in the New Jersey State Legislature, she continues to fight for those who serve—both in her local Camden County community and across the state.

This heartfelt conversation explores themes of resilience, sacrifice, and purpose. It’s an episode that will move you, inspire you, and remind you of the enduring strength of those who bear the weight of service beyond the battlefield. Don’t miss this unforgettable WETSU conversation about honor, heartbreak, and hope.

WETSU: A Battleship NJ Podcast is now proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative / ELEC 825.

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On this episode of WETSU, Battleship New Jersey CEO and Host Marshall Spevak welcomes Tim Parlatore, Managing Partner of Parlatore Law Group LLP — a distinguished attorney who specializes in representing veterans and active-duty service members. A former Surface Warfare Officer turned Navy JAG, Tim brings a rare blend of operational experience and legal expertise to the conversation.

From his days as a Midshipman at the U.S. Naval Academy to leading sailors aboard the USS NORMANDY (CG-60), Tim shares his unique journey transitioning from the bridge of a warship to the courtroom — and how his time in uniform shaped his leadership philosophy as a lawyer, entrepreneur, and businessman.

We also dive into practical advice for high school students pursuing nominations to U.S. Naval Academy, the rapid transformation from Midshipman to Commissioned Officer, and Tim’s decision to return to active duty in 2025 — personally recommissioned by the Secretary of Defense as a Commander in the JAG Corps, twelve years after retiring.

Plus, we get personal — with stories of his Navy career, his passion for service, and even his wedding aboard the Battleship New Jersey! Don’t miss this compelling conversation about service, leadership, and the call to return. Only on WETSU.

WETSU: A Battleship NJ Podcast is now proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative / ELEC 825.

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Step aboard for Episode 8 of WETSU, where Battleship CEO & Host Marshall Spevak welcomes Dr. Chris Lehman for an extraordinary conversation.

A key figure in the reactivation of the Iowa-class battleships, Chris brings firsthand insight from his time on the Senate Armed Services Committee staff and as Special Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs in the Reagan White House. He was in the Situation Room with President Reagan when the USS NEW JERSEY unleashed its powerful 16-inch guns on targets in Lebanon—witnessing history as it happened.

Chris also shares the remarkable military legacy of the storied Philadelphia Lehman family, from his father’s service as a World War II Navy Captain to his brother John’s tenure as Secretary of the Navy.

Don’t miss this riveting episode as we go behind the scenes of congressional maneuvering, naval recommissioning, and real-world combat operations that cemented the Battleship New Jersey’s legacy in the 1980s.

WETSU: A Battleship NJ Podcast is now proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative / ELEC 825.

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