STARS, STRIPES, AND STORMS...

As the 4th of July rolls around again, it's a time for us to remember those who have served our nation. Regardless of our political or cultural differences, each and every person living in this country owes a debt of gratitude to the men and women of our armed services. We live in one of the most blessed nations on Earth, and must never lose site of what it takes to protect it.

This is also a good time to explore a little history. You may not realize it, but many of our Founding Fathers were amateur meteorolologists. Most of us remember our grade school lessons about Benjamin Franklin's electrical experimentations. His studies of lightning eventually led to the invention of the lightning rod and increased our general understanding of charge theory. President George Washington was also noted for his weather observations, as was fellow patriot Thomas Jefferson.

Jefferson kept a meticulous log of meteorological observances for nearly eight years. He purchased a barometer, thermometer, and various other weather sensing devices for use in his research. It was Jefferson who recorded the weather conditions at the formal gathering in Philadelphia on July 4th, 1776. In case you were wondering, the high temperature was 76 degrees.

 It is often said that the mother of invention is necessity. Indeed, future United States Presidents would learn that accurate weather prediction was vital to the Nation's Security. It was President William McKinley who recognized the need for a hurricane tracking network in the late 1800's. In response to the growing naval interests in the West Indies, McKinley planted the seeds of an organization that would eventually become the National Hurricane Center.

Today, we enjoy advancements that would stagger the minds of Washington and his contemporaries. As we remember our history this July 4th, let us continue to honor all those who have contributed to our nation- especially our armed forces.

 (Comments? Send Jerry and email at jjackson@wwaytv3.com)