This is what 4th of July has become for us. Last year was a departure, due to the pandemic but now we are back. Out on the boat in San Diego Harbor with the rest of the Hooligans. It is quite the spectacle. There are always a sea of Trump flags, a trend that started about 8 years ago and still continues. For some reason, maybe it is demographics, but the large majority of mega yacht owners seem to have added to their flag poles a nice shiny red, white and blue Trump flag. This has become the new symbol of decadence, of brazen beer chugging freedom. Yet there I am, with my little boat, sandwiched in between mega yachts, anchored in the bay waiting for the Big Bay Boom firework show.
The day always starts out rather calm. Then slowly as the sun comes out, the natives start to stir. Water sports start to become active, and inevitably the alcohol starts to flow. In San Diego there are always visiting guests from around the world. Some foreign nationals will always be there flying their country’s flag especially high. This last few years we have found ourselves anchored next to a giant red and yellow sailboat with the CCCP letters painted on the side, a giant hammer and sickle on the main mast and a rowdy bunch of men and boys drinking vodka at every slightest provocation. Ura! Ura! Ura! Mother Russia!
Of course competing with the country music blaring from the Trump boats is the tell tale Gangsta Rap boats. They do not start up until around 2pm, but they usually have far more investment in quality sound systems. Their boats are not as big, but they definitely know how to invite guests. Resembling a sardine or anchovy fishing vessel, these boats will pull into the mooring area with the deep booming bass and hundreds of girls spilling over the edges and railings of the boat. I like to watch as the barely sober “player” will try to figure out how to anchor his rental boat for a few hours as his entourage dances and gyrates to the latest dance hits on Sirius Hip Hop Nation.
The evening will start to settle in, jet ski traffic will start to dwindle, people will start grilling hamburgers and the flotillas will come out. A slight calmness will spread over the bay and then almost as if in unison, everyone turns their boats to the same radio station and inevitably, Neil Diamond’s Proud to be an American will come on. Every one will sing along, including the Russians, and for a moment, just a moment, we will all be in harmony. Even the one Feel the Burn boat will join in the chorus. Then the fireworks start and for a moment, just a moment, you think there is hope for this place we call America.
Then it is back to drinking and all sorts of raucous. I slowly pull anchor and drift back to the marina, hoping some drunk idiot does not try to pull a skier at 11pm. Such is life in the country that stands as a light on the shining hill, the bulwark that will outstand the rude blast, the last bastion of Freedom, the good ‘ol United States of America.
Guy Reams
UPDATE: I am sad to learn that the “Age of Russia” sailing vessel is no longer with us. In 2020, the famous sail boat was blown ashore @ Coronado during a storm. Do not think the Russians will be with us this year. Photo by Keith James.
What interesting stories you share on your blog. The one about the hike was amazing! That would have taken such strength and endurance. Today’s blog was fascinating too. I’m looking for those times the USA comes together and everyone shows love and respect for each other regardless of race, religion and gender or political opinions.
Agreed!