The September issue of The Beacon

Team Souda,

As we start to turn the corner into the last month of fiscal year 2021, we should reflect on all that has transpired throughout the past year, since October 2020. Looking back on the previous 12 months, our nation, our Navy and our world has seen and experienced major upheavals in cultural norms, human conditions, political determinations, social changes, health challenges and scientific discoveries. Every single one of these events has had some impact, either positive or negative, on each one of us. There is no denying that. Information and opinion from every imaginable source has bombarded us. As military service members, we all have a responsibility to remain neutral in our reactions to these influences constantly swirling around us; however, as neutral as we remain in our reaction, we cannot ignore the fact it affects us, and as humans, we feel it. As human beings, we are all very different, even though joined together in the commonality of service to our country. In our diversity, we feel and interpret influences dissimilarly, and that is OK! As long as we realize that in each other, and recognize that our service to the U.S. makes us all Sisters and Brothers in that service, we will continue to succeed in strongly supporting and defending the U.S and her citizens, from all enemies. Further, we will continue to support and defend each other in the same manner.

My wife, Kim, and I are getting ready to transition to the next chapter in our lives. I am pleased to invite you all to celebrate with us at my Retirement Ceremony on Friday, Sept. 17. On Jan. 1, 2022, I will mark 31 years of service and officially retire from OUR NAVY.

As I reflect back on the past 12 months here at Souda Bay, I cannot help but also reflect back across my three decades of service, which started in December of 1990. I can tell you honestly that much has changed in the Navy and outside of the Navy over the past 30 years – too much to attempt to list. I will say this though, for everything that has changed, there are certain, very important things, which remain the same about the U.S. service member. I feel very comfortable as I step over the precipice, and leave our Navy, and that is because I know that the American Sailor of today is the absolute best American Sailor that ever was. More intelligent, better equipped, more highly-trained, more versatile, vastly more resilient, better resourced, and finally, much better guided and steered by leaders who are more capable, empathetic, understanding and approachable than any before them. As human beings, we continue to evolve, and as service members, we do too.

I go now, full speed into the next chapter in my life, knowing that in my wake is a Navy that will continue to win the day, is ready to fight, and will always defend and protect those who cannot – honorably, through courage, with commitment. Fair winds and Calm Seas Team Souda; it was truly my honor and privilege to have served with each of you.