Ep 22. The State of the Navy | "Only in America"

The episode titled "The State of the Navy | Only in America" from 60 Minutes season 55 delves deep into the current status of the United States Navy. The first segment of the episode explores the concerns surrounding the readiness of the Navy. David Martin, a correspondent for 60 Minutes, interviews sailors and officers who claim that the Navy is ill-prepared to handle any modern-day threats. The officers cite a severe lack of resources, including personnel, training, and equipment necessary for modern warfare.

The second segment of the episode takes a look at the state of recruitment in the Navy. Correspondent Bill Whitaker interviews a family with a long history of serving in the Navy. The family speaks about the pride they have in serving in the Navy and the sense of camaraderie that exists among its members. Whitaker then explores the challenges of recruitment, including the significant competition from other armed forces and a growing number of career opportunities for millennials.

In the third segment, 60 Minutes takes a closer look at a unique aspect of American society - the ideal of "only in America." Specifically, the episode explores the story of an immigrant who achieved amazing success in the Navy. Born in Ukraine, Petro Poroshenko came to America as a student and eventually became a citizen. He then went on to become a successful businessman and served in the Ukrainian government before being elected president in 2014.

The fourth and final segment of the show looks at the recent controversy surrounding the "Fat Leonard" scandal, one of the worst bribery and corruption cases in Navy history. Correspondent Scott Pelley talks with John Beliveau, a retired Navy commander who was sentenced to 30 months in prison for accepting bribes from Leonard Glenn Francis, a Malaysian businessman. The case, which involved the bribery of Navy officials with cash, gifts, and prostitutes, has shaken the Navy's reputation and raised questions about the Navy's ability to investigate itself.

Overall, "The State of the Navy | Only in America" episode from 60 Minutes season 55 provides a comprehensive look at the current state of the Navy. From concerns about readiness and recruitment to unique success stories and controversies, this episode offers a well-rounded view of one of America's most important military branches.