In a post 9/11 world, it's much more difficult for civilians to get an opportunity to tour military installations, or see some of the impressive hardware used by the armed forces. 

However, this weekend (Aug. 1st and 2nd) one of these rare tours is available to the public at the Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station.  The free tour of the guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold will be held on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  The Benfold's home port is San Diego.

Entrance to the ship's open house is at the Liberty Gate, just south of the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Seal Beach Boulevard.  The Navy is permitting cameras, but backpacks and handbags aren't allowed onboard the vessel.  All aboard!!