Craig Cooper

A Tiger's Tale Craig Cooper

Originally, this was just a journal to document a tiger experience. Capt. Ian Sonnenberg invited his dad, John Sonnenberg, and his uncle, Craig Cooper, to join him in Honolulu aboard the USS San Diego (LPD-22) and sail to Camp Pendleton, California, on a tiger cruise. There was some brief preliminary information and a couple of emails, but there was little information on what to expect from the experience. The plan was to capture the experience so others would feel more prepared. But this project turned into something more. The journal then shifted to creating a guidebook for anyone going on an extended tiger cruise as well as composing a journal. As the journal developed into a manual for tiger cruises, it took on another dimension. This document grew to be an optimistic accounting of the future of America. This team of Sailors and Marines crossed the globe, with our flag proudly flying from the mast, and showed the world the strength and spirit of the United States. Theyall the US militaryindeed, are celebrated in the successful culmination of their missions. In addition to this optimistic message came the realization that the future leaders of our industries, institutions, and government are being developed within these brave men and women. Hoorah!