genocolo Loc: Vail and Gasparilla Island

I, like you, have seen photos of these, overloaded with desperate men, women and children.

But until I saw one in person, I could not truly begin to comprehend what the trip must have been like.

Let me just say that I wouldn’t attempt the same trip in my very stable 27 foot boat with twin outboards!

Would you?

(Download)

Toment Loc: FL, IL

Inspiring indeed
Thanks

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

I would prefer an ocean liner (not a cruise ship).

I haven't confirmed this story. One or two people supposedly escaped from Castro's Cuba about fifty years ago by hiding in the wheel well of a plane. They lived in this area, and that was the story going around. It's a short flight from Cuba to FL, maybe it was possible. And then they came to the Catsk**ls. 😊

davidrb Loc: Half way there on the 45th Parallel

Until one has sailed in such a boat one has no understanding of how desparate the sailor was. I travelled the world extensively during the Viet Nam era. Never did I return to America without an increased appreciation of freedom, a feeling no other national has ever felt. Imagine, if you can what it must feel like to live in a jail with no bars and only 90 miles to freedom. Your 27 footer twin engined craft would accomodate a hundred or so of these tired, forgotten prisoners of tyranny. The Cubans have never asked for anything other than being allowed to stay IF they succeed in the crossing. And that request is not often granted. A lazy, worthless scum-bag such as AOC was given something she has no desire in having when decent human beings are being refused entry. Maybe the p***e of being an American is not as shiny as some will claim. While the chaff of central America comes demanding entry our "leaders" open welcome arms AND borders. But the Cubans wait, patiently, and honestly. Beware the patience of a refugee-in-waiting. America is forgetting what it was like being on the other side of the Wall.

Mainridge Loc: NW Mich, SW Fla

David,

While I have not travelled the world, I appreciate your sentiments regarding freedom. I have been to Haiti four times and have seen first hand the desperation of people living under tyranny and despicable conditions. I ache for the friends I have made there. As Americans, we have been blessed with endless opportunities, and if we fail in one we have others to pursue. I cannot count all the wonderful opportunities I have had and it bothers me thinking about how easily I have taken some of them for granted. In places like Haiti and Cuba, opportunities to better themselves are nearly non-existent. Little wonder folks in Cuba would risk drowning when opportunity exists for a new way of life.

craneman

I just have to wonder why they display their f**g. I see lots of Mexican f**gs flying in this country also. I might be in the wrong but this really pisses me off.

genocolo Loc: Vail and Gasparilla Island

While you “traveled the world extensively during the Viet Nam era,” I actually served in Vietnam. If you did any critical reading other than right-wing blogs, you would know your offensive comments about AOC are wrong. I am sure you wish you had been as successful as she is. And, who are you to call another human being “chaff”?

kpmac Loc: Ragley, La

Attic bound.

Linda From Maine Loc: Yakima, Washington

Ayuh.

davidrb Loc: Half way there on the 45th Parallel

I was in and out of the Zone many times. Took many hours to get there and get back. Not my doings and not my choice but I went the route of duty to my country. For you to insult me with your support of people like AOC is YOUR choice and not much of a se******n. You idolize a cretion like that to exemplify your right to do so. We both fought for your right to that opinion. Your choices reflect your political philosophy. But your philosophy stops at the end of your left wing. Most people I know have been more successful than AOC will ever be at anything she attempts, except she has fooled some of the people lots of the time. Do you feel luck, or do you feel used?

Retired CPO Loc: Travel full time in an RV

You're right, Ken. But before it goes there, I will just say, that's probably the best description of AOC I have ever heard.
As to the OP, yes, I have travelled that route from Cuba to Florida in a sail boat, a REAL sailboat, with plenty of fresh water and food. And it was the most uncomfortable trip I have ever made! Maybe not dangerous, but not in any way fun. Desperate people do desperate things and I have to admire their cajones for even trying!

rlv567 Loc: Baguio City, Philippines

You are absolutely correct!!! Unfortunate that so many are brainwashed/agenda-driven/mindless!

Loren - in Beautiful Baguio City

Mac Loc: Pittsburgh, Philadelphia now Hernando Co. Fl.

It is a good indication of how desperate they are.

Mac Loc: Pittsburgh, Philadelphia now Hernando Co. Fl.

Mac Loc: Pittsburgh, Philadelphia now Hernando Co. Fl.

Confederate f**gs piss me off.