SALUTE THE US NAVY BEAN SOUP

Steps:

• 1. Use your favorite method for the beans (soaking over night, or fast soak) drain the soaking water. Add 7 cups of water to the beans and add the ham bone. Simmer until beans are tender (about 1 1/4 hours). Remove the ham bone or hock, discard any fat and dice up the ham. Return to the pot.
• 2. Add the balance of the ingredients and simmer until potatoes are done. (20-30 minutes)
• 3. I mash some of the beans up with a potato masher to thicken the soup. You can omit this of course.