Claire is baptized

Claire was baptized on board Wade's ship the USS Anzio. It is a Navy tradition to baptize crew members or family members from the ship's bell. Here is a description of the tradition:

"The custom of baptizing a child under the ship’s bell, or using the bell inverted as a christening bowl originated in the British Royal Navy. Considered an honor since the bell is afterward inscribed with the names of the children baptized and establishes a symbolic link between the ship, the crew and the nation. A ship’s bell traditionally never leaves the vessel. It travels with the ship throughout its service and remains aboard while the ship is commissioned.

U.S. Navy bells are part of the many artifacts removed from decommissioned vessels preserved by the Naval Historical Center. They may be provided on loan to new namesake ships; naval commands with an historical mission or functional connection; and to museums and other institutions that are interpreting specific historical themes and displays of naval history. Bells remain the permanent property of the Department of the Navy. These serve to inspire and to remind our naval forces and personnel of their honor, courage, and commitment to the defense of our great nation."

Claire was amazing during the whole thing. We tried our best to explain what would happen and why so she was prepared for it. It was followed by a celebration lunch of what else....chik'n nun nuns.