A Note From That KEVIN: 07-11-26

Travel

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A Note from “That KEVIN”

July 11, 2026

What a week it was.

Last Saturday, our family stood on the flight deck and concourse of the legendary USS Intrepid as New York Harbor became the stage for one of the greatest patriotic celebrations any of us will ever witness.

The arrival of America’s naval fleet, the majestic Parade of Sail, and the International Aerial Review marking our nation’s 250th birthday reminded me that some moments simply cannot be recreated. More than 40 tall ships from around the world, dozens of naval vessels, and well over 100 military aircraft transformed New York Harbor into a living tribute to freedom.

Watching the flyover, I found myself struck once again by our military. From the Navy Blue Angels leading the formation to aircraft including F/A-18 Super Hornets, B-2 Spirit bombers, B-52 Stratofortresses, C-17 Globemasters, A-10 Warthogs and many more, everything happened with breathtaking precision. Right on time. Right on target. It reminded me that while most of us go about our daily lives, there are men and women who quietly dedicate themselves to excellence every single day. I’m grateful they’re there—and willing to do what they do.

Our family’s favorite? No mystery there.

The F/A-18s.

We have Hornet personnel in our family, and every pass overhead filled us with just a little more pride.

Then there were the tall ships. My very Italian crew couldn’t help smiling when the magnificent Amerigo Vespucci appeared. My son, who took his first trip to Italy just last year, looked over and said, “Of course she’s the most beautiful ship in the world… she’s Italian.” I couldn’t really argue.

Three nights later, we found ourselves back on New York Harbor—this time aboard a vessel sailing among many of those same magnificent ships. Seeing them from the water, up close and quietly illuminated, felt entirely different than the parade itself. It was one of those family evenings that you know you’ll still be talking about years from now.

In this edition of That Passport Life , we’re taking you aboard the Intrepid Museum, one of America’s great family attractions. We’re also whisking you away to Madeira, Portugal’s spectacular Atlantic island that’s quickly becoming Europe’s hottest destination.

And looking ahead to Labor Day week, I’ll be broadcasting live from backstage at Getty Music’s SING Conference in Nashville, bringing you exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes access as one of the world’s great worship gatherings celebrates its 10th anniversary.

Finally, join us on television this weekend. We’re on Salem News Channel Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m. Eastern, and BizTV Saturday evening at 9:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. Eastern.

This week’s guests include Patrice Onwuka from the Independent Women’s Forum, country superstars Dan + Shay, fresh off their FIFA World Cup National Anthem performance, plus sketch comedy from The Babylon Bee and Nick Peterson.

We’re going more places than ever before.

Thank you for coming along for the journey.

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@ItsThatKEVIN