US Navy Day and More

Semper Fidelis – Aways Faithful. Most of us recognize the motto of the Marine Corps. So that got me to wondering what is the motto of the Navy? Would you believe our sailors technically don’t have an official motto.

So what about an unofficial motto? Naturally, there is disagreement over what its unofficial motto just might be. Some claim the unofficial motto comes from the phrase inscribed above the chapel doors of the Naval Academy in Annapolis. Unlike the Marines, this Latin phrase is a bit wordy: Non sibi sed patriae – Not self, but country. It fits every branch of service, for our military lays down their very lives to protect our country. Another unofficial motto is also the title of their unofficial song, Anchors Aweigh. The third unofficial motto is also Latin, Semper Fortis – Aways Courageous. The men and women of our Navy exemplify all three. And we, a grateful nation, thank you.

Today is also National Potato Day. Not long ago, on the Feast of Saint John Paul II, I shared with you an amazing Italian Red Potato dish. I did this for two reasons. First, to feature a side dish since so often a side dish is thought of as a second fiddle to the main course. But what would that steak be without a potato or a burger without fries? Side dishes complete the mean and are just as important.

Today we are featuring yet another “main attraction” that just happens to go very well with the Italian Potatoes.

Italian Pork Medallions
1 lb Pork Tenderloin
Salt to taste
Black Pepper to taste
2 tablespoons Butter
1/2 cup Zesty Italian Salad Dressing

Cut pork tenderloin into 8 slices to create medallions. Season with salt and pepper, set aside.

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear medallions about 3 minutes per side.

Reduce heat to medium. Add salad dressing, turn medallions several times to coat in the dressing. Cover and let simmer for about 10 minutes or until cooked through depending upon thickness. Serve with Italian Red Potatoes and Green Beans.

Italian Red Potatoes with Green Beans
6 medium Red Potatoes
12 oz fresh or frozen Whole Green Beans
1/4 Red Onion
1/3 cup Water
1/2 cup Zesty Italian Salad Dressing

Cut potatoes into quarters. Place potatoes into a pot and cover with water. Add a little salt to the water, bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and cook for about 10-15 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender.

Meanwhile, trim green beans and set aside. Peel and dice a quarter of a red onion, set aside.

Place the beans and water in a 2-qt. microwave-safe dish. Cover and microwave on high for 6-8 minutes or until tender. Pour Italian dressing into a small sauce pan. Add onions and warm gently.

Drain beans and potatoes; place in a serving bowl. Pour dressing over vegetables, toss to coat. Serve hot.

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Thus says the LORD: Shout with joy for Jacob, exult at the head of the nations; proclaim your praise and say: The LORD has delivered His people,
the remnant of Israel.