WETSU: a BattleshipNJ Podcast

On this episode of WETSU, we go straight into the firepower of the 1980s reactivation era with CDR Mike Holmes (USN, Ret.) — a Battleship New Jersey plankowner who helped bring Big J back to life.Assigned to USS New Jersey (BB-62) in 1982 as the ship’s Reactivation & Repair Officer, Mike stood at the center of one of the most consequential moments in modern naval history—bringing the nation’s most decorated battleship back to life. Tasked with overseeing critical overhaul and maintenance efforts, he helped prepare the ship to rejoin the fleet under the direction of President Ronald Reagan and Secretary of the Navy John Lehman.From long days in dry dock to deployment off Beirut, Mike shares candid, unfiltered sea stories—including his firsthand experiences surrounding the aftermath of the Beirut barracks bombing. These are the kinds of stories only a battleship sailor can tell.Today, as President of the USS New Jersey Veterans Association, Mike continues his service in a different but still meaningful way — leading and preserving the legacy of the ship’s crew for generations to come. Join us for a powerful and deeply personal episode of WETSU.WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey Podcast is proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative (ELEC) 825.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

The Navy doesn’t sail on firepower alone—so who keeps the fleet fueled, supplied, and ready to fight? On this episode of WETSU, Battleship New Jersey CEO Marshall Spevak sits down with Atlantic City native Rear Admiral Mark “Buz” Buzby, USN (Ret.), for a wide-ranging and insightful conversation on one of the Navy’s most under recognized—but absolutely indispensable—missions: sealift, underway replenishment, and logistics. From growing up at the Jersey Shore with dreams of life on the salt water, to commanding at sea aboard USS CARNEY (DDG-64) and Destroyer Squadron 31, to leading the two largest maritime organizations in the nation—Military Sealift Command and the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD)—Admiral Buzby reflects on a career defined by mentorship, leadership, and service. He also shares the unique significance of commanding a namesake ship tied to one of Battleship New Jersey’s most storied sailors, and sheds light on the often unseen, less glamorous—but critically vital—“non-pointy end” of the Navy that keeps the fleet in the fight. From the Jersey Shore to the backbone of America’s global Navy—meet the leader who helped keep the fleet moving. Join us for another compelling WETSU conversation, tracing an extraordinary journey from a Jersey Shore kid to the highest levels of naval and federal service—only on WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey Podcast.WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey Podcast is proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative (ELEC) 825.Article mentioned: https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2025/july/modern-maritime-service-can-deliver-what-nation-needsSend us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

On this episode of WETSU, host and Battleship New Jersey CEO Marshall Spevak sits down with Rear Admiral Michael A. York, Commanding Officer of Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Weapon Systems Support (WSS), for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, logistics, and the quiet systems that sustain American sea power.In a compelling discussion with the Philadelphia-based flag officer, Admiral York reflects on a distinguished career at sea and ashore—from a Laundry Officer at his alma mater, the United States Naval Academy, to serving as Supply Officer aboard an aircraft carrier USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN-65), to commanding the U.S. Navy Supply Corps School. Along the way, he shares lessons learned from leading sailors, managing complexity, and building trust across the fleet.Admiral York also offers WETSU listeners an insider’s view of NAVSUP WSS, illuminating the critical role of global supply, sustainment, and replenishment in keeping ships, aircraft, and sailors ready—an often unseen, unrecognized, but absolutely indispensable backbone of fleet operations around the world.Join us as we open 2026 with another thoughtful and insightful conversation with a senior leader at one of the Navy’s most consequential ashore commands.WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey podcast is proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative ELEC 825.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

On this episode of WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey Podcast, host and CEO Marshall Spevak sits down with Chief Warrant Officer 5 Phillip Brashear—son of Navy legend Master Chief Carl Brashear, the first Black U.S. Navy Master Diver whose life inspired the 2000 film Men of Honor.Phillip reflects on his own distinguished military journey, from his early years in the Navy to his transition into the Army, where he became a helicopter pilot and amassed more than 2,600 flight hours during deployments to Bosnia and Iraq.He shares what it was like growing up as the son of an American icon, the 25th anniversary of Men of Honor, his recent recognition as an Honorary Chief Petty Officer by the MCPON, and his deep commitment to the Battleship New Jersey’s Chief Petty Officer Heritage Academy—now in its 18th year and the largest CPO Heritage Academy for the Naval Reserve in the nation.Join us for an inspiring conversation with a remarkable leader carrying forward a family legacy of service, resilience, and honor.WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey podcast is proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative ELEC 825.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

On this episode of WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey Podcast, host and CEO Marshall Spevak welcomes a very special guest: Congresswoman and Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill.Fresh off her election as New Jersey’s 57th Governor, Governor-elect Sherrill reflects on her journey of service — from the halls of the U.S. Naval Academy, to the skies as a Navy helicopter pilot, to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, and soon, the Statehouse in Trenton.She shares her thoughts on servant leadership, the importance of preserving our history, and how her time in uniform continues to shape her approach to public service.As a proud Navy veteran, Governor-elect Sherrill understands the legacy of the Battleship New Jersey — a symbol of our state’s strength, our veterans’ sacrifices, and our nation’s naval heritage. WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey podcast is proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative ELEC 825.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

In this episode of WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey Podcast, host and CEO Marshall Spevak welcomes a special guest—Bill Kraus, Co-Founder of Mission BBQ.With more than 140 locations across 23 states, including several here in New Jersey, Mission BBQ has become a national symbol of patriotism served with a side of authentic, slow-smoked flavor. The company is also a proud catering partner of the Battleship New Jersey.In this inspiring and wide-ranging conversation, Bill reflects on his early days as one of the first employees at Under Armour and how that experience fueled his entrepreneurial drive to create Mission BBQ. He shares stories behind the brand’s deeply rooted patriotic traditions, his favorite item on the menu, and his passionate support for the Global War on Terror Memorial Foundation in Washington, D.C.—a cause close to his heart.Whether you’ve enjoyed Mission BBQ on board the Battleship or at one of their restaurants nationwide, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the company’s mission, its people, and the values that unite us all.Special Note: This episode was recorded in early September 2025. On September 17, 2025, Bill’s son, U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer Three Andrew Kraus, age 39, was tragically killed along with three fellow soldiers in a helicopter training accident in the State of Washington. The entire Battleship New Jersey crew extends our deepest condolences to Bill and his family.To make a donation to the GWOT memorial in Andrew’s honor, please visit: https://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org/donate/WETSU: A Battleship NJ Podcast is proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative ELEC 825.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

In this special episode of WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey Podcast, CEO and host Marshall Spevak is joined by George Leone, President and Chair of Homecoming250, the nonprofit leading the charge in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States Navy and Marine Corps.George shares the history and exciting vision behind this once-in-a-generation celebration, set to take place across Philadelphia and South Jersey in October and November 2025. From the arrival of Navy ships you’ll be able to tour, to major headline events that will bring our region to life, listeners will get a front-row seat to all the planning and festivities that honor two and a half centuries of naval tradition.Whether you’re traveling to the region to celebrate, a local looking to explore active-duty Navy ships, or simply someone passionate about naval and American history, this episode has everything you need to know about Navy and Marine Corps 250. Tune in and get ready to be part of history.For more news and info about the upcoming Homecoming 250 celebrations this Fall, please visit:https://www.battleshipnewjersey.org/homecoming-250-events/homecoming250.orgnavy.mil/Navy-250WETSU: A Battleship NJ Podcast is proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative ELEC 825.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

On this very special bonus episode of WETSU: A Battleship New Jersey Podcast, CEO and Host Marshall Spevak welcomes the 56th Governor of New Jersey and Commander-in-Chief of the New Jersey National Guard, the Honorable Phil Murphy.In this wide-ranging and candid conversation, Governor Murphy reflects on nearly eight years in office and his tenure as U.S. Ambassador to Germany. He shares stories from his visits with U.S. troops in Afghanistan, overseeing the highest operational tempo in New Jersey National Guard history, and his recent trip to the U.S. 5th Fleet. The Governor also highlights milestone moments, including the commissioning of the USS NEW JERSEY (SSN-796) and his deep admiration for the legendary Battleship New Jersey.The discussion also explores his newly signed legislation that creates two distinct cabinet-level departments, one dedicated to the National Guard and another focused solely on Veterans Affairs—an historic step for New Jersey.Don’t miss this engaging bonus episode filled with leadership insights, military history, and even a few surprise moments—listen closely, and you just might hear Governor Murphy embrace the iconic WETSU spirit himself.WETSU: A Battleship NJ Podcast is proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative ELEC 825.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

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.orgnavy.mil/Navy-250WETSU: A Battleship NJ Podcast is proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative ELEC 825.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

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!Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

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.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

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.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

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.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

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.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

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.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

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.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

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.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

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.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

Join Battleship CEO & Host Marshall Spevak for an exclusive conversation with CAPT Kent “Brewski” Smith, Commanding Officer of Naval Weapons Station Earle, a critical hub for U.S. Fleet Forces Command in Monmouth County, NJ.In this episode, CAPT Smith shares his firsthand experiences—from deploying with his Carrier Strike Group in the aftermath of 9/11 to the historic commissioning of the USS NEW JERSEY (SSN-796) at NWS Earle. Learn about the base’s strategic role in storing, handling, and supplying ordnance to the U.S. Navy and allied forces, as well as the unwavering support from the New Jersey community.Don’t miss this deep dive into the mission, impact, and future of one of New Jersey’s most vital military installations—led by one of the state’s highest-ranking military officers!Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

Dive deep into the legacy of the USS NEW JERSEY—this time, not the legendary battleship, but the cutting-edge Virginia-class submarine!In this must-listen episode of WETSU, host and Battleship New Jersey CEO Marshall Spevak sits down with a distinguished guest: CDR Steve Halle (USN), the Plankowner Commanding Officer of the USS NEW JERSEY (SSN-796).Together, they explore CDR Halle’s remarkable naval career—from his journey through the STA-21 program to navigating the Arctic in ICEX 2018—and the immense responsibility of delivering a nuclear-powered submarine. They also dive into the excitement of Commissioning Week and the enduring bond between the Battleship and its modern namesake. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation with a true leader and great friend of the Battleship, CDR Steve Halle!Toward the end of Episode 6 of WETSU, Battleship New Jersey CEO and host Marshall Spevak makes a special promise—Battleship New Jersey will match donations to the Family Readiness Groups (FRG) and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) funds. These programs play a vital role in supporting sailors and their families, strengthening the Navy community. This initiative closely aligns with the Battleship’s mission, and we're pleased to support the growing legacy of our namesake boat. Show your support here: https://ussnjcc.myshopify.com/products/ssn-796-family-readiness-group-frg-donationSend us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

In this compelling episode of WETSU, Battleship New Jersey CEO & Host Marshall Spevak welcomes Captain Joe Benton III—a veteran docking pilot with McAllister Towing, a Battleship New Jersey Board Trustee, and the only docking pilot in the entire U.S. Navy Reserve.Captain Benton has had the rare honor of maneuvering the 887-foot Battleship New Jersey to and from dry dock on four separate occasions. In this episode, he takes us behind the scenes of these high-stakes movements, offering an exclusive look at the intricate logistical, technical, and strategic planning involved in dry docking a national treasure.Beyond the battleship, Captain Benton also serves as a Strategic Sealift Officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve, training navigators and pilots worldwide on the complex art of guiding massive warships in and out of ports. Don’t miss this deep dive into the world of dry docking, naval logistics, and dedicated service on WETSU. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation!Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

Episode 4 of WETSU: A Battleship New Jersey Podcast brings you an extraordinary conversation with Admiral J. Paul Reason (USN, Ret.), a trailblazing leader whose remarkable career helped shape the modern Navy.Host and CEO Marshall Spevak sits down with Admiral Reason for a candid and captivating discussion, tracing his journey from the U.S. Naval Academy to his pivotal encounter with Admiral Hyman Rickover that secured his place in the nuclear propulsion program. Admiral Reason shares firsthand accounts of his time serving as the Naval Aide to the President of the United States to his command of Battle Group Romeo, where USS New Jersey served as his flagship, and reflects on the leadership, challenges, and historic milestones that defined his service.Notably, Admiral Reason made history as the U.S. Navy’s first Black 4-Star Admiral while serving as Command-in-Chief of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet—an achievement that cemented his legacy as one of the Navy’s most distinguished officers. Don’t miss this compelling episode of WETSU, where history, leadership, and the legacy of USS New Jersey come to life through the words of an iconic naval figure.Please note: Due to technical audio issues during the original recording, some portions of our host’s audio were re-recorded for clarity. However, the conversation with Admiral J. Paul Reason was too outstanding for our listeners to miss. We’re thrilled to share it with you, but please keep this in mind while viewing!Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

On Episode 3 of WETSU: A Battleship New Jersey Podcast, CEO & Host Marshall Spevak welcomes retired Navy SEAL Bill Brown for a riveting discussion on service, sacrifice, and leadership.Bill takes us inside his extraordinary career—from the grueling trials of BUD/S to high-stakes missions protecting the Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister during Operation Iraqi Freedom and as a first responder to suicide bomber attacks in Iraq. But his dedication to service didn’t end with the Navy. Now an Attorney, Veterans Advocate, and leader of the NYC SEAL Swim, Bill continues to champion the values of patriotic unity.Join us for an insightful conversation about the realities of life as a SEAL, the future of the Navy, and the enduring mission to support those who serve. Don’t miss Episode 3 of WETSU!For more information on the New York City SEAL Swim including the Navy SEAL Foundation’s mission and the August 16 SEAL Swim event this year, we encourage you to check out their website. Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

Dive into the second episode of the WETSU Podcast, where Battleship New Jersey CEO and host Marshall Spevak sits down with Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-1st) for an engaging and insightful conversation.In this episode, Congressman Norcross delves into the remarkable journey of the Battleship New Jersey, from the founding of the Home Port Alliance, a 501(c)(3) organization that now stewards the historic ship, to her dramatic transit through the Panama Canal en route to Camden. He also shares his thoughts on the Save Our Ships Act—the Norcross legislation to bring federal funds to museum ships across the country—the ship's recent dry docking and offers a compelling look at the future of the Navy's surface and silent service fleets.Whether you're passionate about the Battleship’s legacy as a museum and memorial or curious about the evolution of the U.S. Navy, this episode is a must-listen. Don't miss this fascinating discussion about history, preservation, and the path ahead for our naval forces!Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

Introducing the inaugural episode of WETSU: A Battleship New Jersey Podcast! Host and CEO Marshall Spevak kicks off the series with a powerful conversation featuring Rear Admiral R.D. Tucker (USN, Ret.), the 19th and final Commanding Officer of the legendary USS New Jersey (BB-62).In this episode, Admiral Tucker reflects on the meaning of WETSU, his distinguished Naval career, and his time at the helm of the Battleship. He also shares insights into commissioning the new USS NEW JERSEY (SSN-796) submarine and much more.Don’t miss this special first episode of WETSU—a must-listen for naval history enthusiasts and Battleship New Jersey fans alike! Tune in now to hear Admiral Tucker’s incredible stories and perspectives.Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.

🚨BIG NEWS🚨 On January 15, 2025, we're launching WETSU: A Battleship New Jersey podcast. Our CEO Marshall Spevak will spotlight untold stories with key figures connected to the ship's legacy, explore life onboard with veterans including a former commanding officer, and connect our past and present with New Jersey's military and veteran community leaders. These stories behind the steel will be launching every other Wednesday on our YouTube channel and wherever you listen to your podcasts! Subscribe and follow us @wetsupod to never miss an episode. Send us Fan MailJoin the WETSU community or Follow us on Instagram.