Tell Us Your Story Archives - Page 2 of 3 - Americans for a Stronger Navy

October 18, 2023November 8, 2023

A Gathering of Naval Legends: The Tin Can Sailors Reunite in Baltimore

2023 National Reunion of the Tin Can Sailors Association

Baltimore’s harbor set the stage for a reunion of historic proportions. It was here, under the proud flutter of the Stars and Stripes, that the Tin Can Sailors, valiant veterans of the U.S. Navy Destroyers, came together for their 2023 National Reunion of the Tin Can Sailors Association.

Dale A. Jenkins, Senior Advisor of Americans for a Stronger Navy, Tin Can Association Life Member, acclaimed author of “Diplomats and Admirals,” was among the esteemed attendees. His presence was a symbol of the union of shipmates recounting tales from the high seas, sharing memories of days gone by.

But why “Tin Cans”? The U.S. Navy Destroyers earned the informal moniker “Tin Cans” due to their thin hulls, which made them vulnerable, yet also swift and maneuverable. U in naval warfare. The sailors who manned them exhibited unparalleled courage and resilience, characteristics that the name “Tin Can” came to embody. It became a badge of honor, a testament to their tenacity and the robust spirit of these vessels.

The highlight of the reunion was a dinner cruise that took the veterans on a serene journey past Baltimore’s iconic skyline. The USS Constellation, a relic of naval history, proudly watched over them, serving as a reminder of the legacy these sailors have left behind.

The reunion was more than just a gathering; it was a commemoration. A tribute to the brave souls who, aboard ships like the USS George K. MacKenzie (DD-836), USS DeHaven DD727, and the USS Wadleigh DD-689, showcased valor and camaraderie. Each vessel’s name was a chapter in the annals of maritime warfare, each sailor a hero of that story.

However, the heart of the event was not the ships, nor the historical recounting, but the bonds that were reaffirmed among these blue water sailors. Bonds that were forged on the swaying decks of their ships, in the heat of battle, and in moments of shared laughter and tears.

“Our time aboard these ships was not just about missions or deployments completed. It was about the brotherhood we formed, the challenges we overcame, and the memories we created. Each wave we sailed, each storm we weathered, added a page to the legacy of the U.S. Navy. We may have sailed on ‘Tin Cans’, but our spirit was, and always will be, unbreakable.” – Dale A. Jenkins said.

In the midst of a rapidly changing world, the reunion served as a timeless beacon, illuminating the values of dedication, honor, and camaraderie. It was a celebration of not just the ships, but the men who served upon them, leaving an indelible mark in the annals of U.S. naval history. These Tin Can Sailors, with their tales of courage and dedication, stood as testament to the enduring spirit of the naval fraternity.

As the event drew to a close, there was a collective understanding that while years may come and go, the legacy of the Tin Can Sailors would remain eternal, forever echoing the undying spirit of the U.S. Navy.

The ships they served on, names echoing with history and honor, were proudly listed:

USS Alfred A. Cunningham DD-752
USS Barney DDG-6
USS Blandy DD-943
USS Borie DD-704
USS Brown DD-546
USS Brownson DD-868
USS Caron DD-970
USS Compton DD-705
USS Conolly DD-979
USS Cowell DD-547
USS Dale DLG-19
USS David R. Ray DD-971
USS DeHaven DD-727
USS Dewey DLG-14
USS Duncan DDR-874
USS Dyess DD-880
USS Edwards DD-619
USS Estocin FFG-15
USS Eversole DD-789
USS Fletcher DD-992
USS Floyd B. Parks DD-884
USS Frank Knox DD-742
USS Frontier AD-25
USS George K. MacKenzie DD-836
USS Glover AGDE-1
USS Goodrich DDR-831
USS Hank DD-702
USS Harry E. Hubbard DD-748
USS Hunt DD-674
USS James E. Kyes DD-787
USS Jarrett FFG-33
USS John Hood DD-655
USS John R. Craig DD-885
USS John W. Weeks DD-701
USS John W. Thomason DD-760
USS John Young DD-973
USS Laffey DD-724
USS Lawrence DDG-4
USS Lofberg DD-759
USS McCaffery DD-860
USS McCracken APA-198
USS Mills DER-383
USS Myles C. Fox DDR-829
USS Newman K. Perry DD-883
USS O’Brien DD-725
USS O’Callahan DE/FF-1051
USS Orleck DD-886
USS Preble DLG-15
USS Remey DD-688
USS Richard E. Kraus DD-849
USS Robert A. Owens DD-827
USS Robert L. Wilson DD-847
USS Robert H. McCard DD-822
USS Rogers DDR-876
USS Sarsfield DD-837
USS Somers DDG-34
USS Theodore E. Chandler DD-717
USS Wadleigh DD-689
USS Weeks DD-701
USS William C. Lawe DD-763
USS William V. Pratt DLG-13
USS Willis A. Lee DL-4
USS Wiltsie DD-716
USS Yellowstone AD

Honarable mention: A special shout out to all of those that served in the Destroyer Navy particularly the USS Henry B. Wilson, (DDG7) the Americans for a Stronger Navy favorite DDG.

October 14, 2023October 15, 2023

The Lone Sailor: A Testament to Service Beyond the Bronze

Lone Sailor, Oahu Naval Base Honolulu, HI – Wikipedia

Hello dear members and subscribers of the Americans for a Stronger Navy.

Today, I embark on sharing a podcast series that’s special to me. It interweaves my service in the Navy, a representative statue symbolizing sailors worldwide, and an inspiring tale of a man named Dan Maloney. Through him, a face was given to this iconic figure.

Over the next few months, we’ll unravel the detailed story of the Lone Sailor statue, the craftsmen behind it, and my intertwined connection to its legacy.

As someone who’s served in the U.S. Navy, I’ve always felt a strong connection to its history, its values, and its symbols. This statue isn’t just a piece of art; it’s a testament to the service and sacrifice of sailors around the globe.

Here’s what we have in store:

Episode 1: “The Origin of The Lone Sailor: A Legacy Cast in Bronze”

Dan Maloney and the Lone Sailor,
San Francisco. CA. Image courtesy of Dan Maloney

Dive into the rich history of the Lone Sailor statue, its significance, and the tale of Dan Maloney, a sailor whose life and service became intrinsically linked to this enduring symbol. Discover the artist’s vision, delve into the hurdles faced during its creation—including the intricate approval process by various committees—and grasp its broader significance in representing all who’ve served in the U.S.Navy.

Episode 2: “Navigating Troubled Waters: Dan Maloney’s Naval Journey”

Dan Maloney and the Lone Sailor,
Washington D.C.- Image courtesy of Dan Maloney

Set sail on Dan Maloney’s naval adventures. From his early years to his rise through the ranks, uncover the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of Naval life during the tumultuous Cold War era.

Episode 3: “Beyond the Bronze: Secrets, Art, and Politics”

Art meets politics in this deep dive into the hidden stories surrounding the Lone Sailor. From the politics of recognition to personal anecdotes, explore the intricate tapestry of duty, art, and politics.

Episode 4: “Full Circle: Revisiting the Lone Sailor in Oahu”

Reconnect with the Lone Sailor as we circle back to its resting place in Oahu. Revel in shared Naval experiences, discussions on heritage, and a reflection on the values the statue embodies.

As we embark on this journey, I invite you to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of stories, experiences, and insights that the Lone Sailor symbolizes.

Episode 1: “The Origin of The Lone Sailor: A Legacy Cast in Bronze”

Lone Sailor, Honolulu. HI image by Bill Cullifer

In January 2018, while visiting Honolulu, HI. to manage my deceased father’s estate, I found myself standing before the recently erected Lone Sailor statue on the Navy base at Pearl Harbor. The weight of its presence was noticeable – this symbolic figure with a chiseled face resonated deeply with me, a former Navy man myself.

The statue conveyed the ethos of every sailor: the valor, the longing, the adventures of the seas, memories of home, and the dedication to service and country.

But my connection to this iconic figure goes beyond my personal experience. In fact; I only recently discovered the intriguing story behind it.

While promoting educational initiatives sponsored by the newly founded, ‘Americans for a Stronger Navy’, which I founded and now manage, I stumbled upon the story of Dan Maloney and the Lone Sailor on social media. Reading about his experiences, I realized he was someone I’d not only want to interview but genuinely like to meet in person.

In my interactions with Dan for the ‘Americans for a Stronger Navy’ initiative, our conversations were both insightful and illuminating. To me, Dan embodies a notable progression and dedication I envision for our Navy. His personal journey, from being the face of the Lone Sailor statue to remaining committed to the Navy and ultimately becoming an officer, stands as a testament to resilience and commitment. We shared tales of Hawaii’s Diamond Head, reminisced about our service days, bonded over classic rock concerts, and discussed the profound significance of the statue in our lives. Among the shared narratives, a touching story about his mother visiting the statue and her unique bond with the construction crew of 1987.

Stanley Bleifeld’s Vision:

The Lone Sailor wasn’t just any sculpture for Bleifeld; it was a homage to naval service worldwide. As a WWII sailor himself, he was deeply connected to the essence of Naval service, and this statue was a means to eternalize that essence. He envisioned a sailor who embodied every facet of naval life – the courage, the commitment, and the sacrifice. In young submariner Dan Maloney, he saw the face that would represent all sailors, past, present, and future.

Creating the Lone Sailor wasn’t just about crafting a statue; it was about capturing an essence that represented sailors universally. When renowned sculptor Stanley Bleifeld envisioned his masterpiece, he was aware that its resonance and impact would be felt by countless sailors and their families. But before his vision could be set in bronze, it had to navigate the complexities of approval.

The design journey of the Lone Sailor was punctuated by numerous committee evaluations. Each committee, comprising individuals with varied perspectives and stakes in the statue, reviewed and critiqued the design.

These committees played a crucial role, ensuring that the statue not only embodied artistic prowess but also accurately represented the ethos and spirit of Naval service. This multi-layered approval process added time and challenges to the project, but it was necessary to ensure that the final product was something that every sailor, past and present, could look at with pride.

Dan graciously shared two key documents, illuminating the depths of his connection with the statue. First, an article from the Navy Times in 2001 offers an intimate first-person recounting of the day this impressive bronze figure was revealed to the world.

The first, an article from the Navy Times in 2001, portrayed an intimate first-person account of the day the statue was unveiled.

The second revealed the detailed account of the statue’s birth. World War II sailor and renowned sculptor, Stanley Bleifeld, faced multiple challenges to finalize the statue. And the face of the sailor? It was modeled after young submariner Daniel Maloney. But this series delves deeper than just art and legacy; it’s a journey through time, memories, shared experiences, and the many challenges faced by those who’ve served. Stay Tuned…”

But who is Dan Maloney? And how did his face become immortalized in bronze? Find out in our next episode, where we will explore his Naval journey, his challenges, and his triumphs”

In our next installment, we will delve deeper into Dan’s life beyond the statue, the heartfelt story of his mother and the construction crew, and more on how our paths converged in unexpected ways. Ready to navigate troubled waters?

Join us as we sail through the seas of history, art, and service.

July 24, 2023July 24, 2023

Beyond the Horizon: Roy Englert’s Journey from the Navy to the Running Track

Meet Roy Englert – A Living Legend

Today, we want to share the extraordinary tale of Mr. Roy Englert, a centenarian World War II Navy veteran, and his unstoppable spirit. Not only did he serve our country with valor, but he also continued to break records as a competitive runner well into his 90s, embodying the very essence of resilience and strength.

Early Life and Naval Service
Englert’s journey started in Nashville during the Great Depression.

He joined the Naval Reserve during his junior year at Vanderbilt University and entered the war effort after graduation in 1943. He participated in significant operations like the D-Day invasion of Normandy, where he served as a supply officer on a landing ship, and Operation Dragoon in the south of France. His service didn’t stop there. He also took part in the Battle of Okinawa, narrowly escaping a kamikaze attack, and was preparing for the invasion of mainland Japan when the war ended.

Post-War Life and Civilian Career
Returning to the U.S., Englert attended law school and then had a fulfilling 22-year career with the Department of the Treasury in Washington, D.C. Later, he moved to a private law firm and business consulting before retiring at age 73.

Unstoppable Spirit – The Runner
After reading a book about the benefits of exercise, Englert began running at age 60. Despite initial challenges, he persisted, gradually transitioning from his basement to high school tracks and eventually to competitive meets. His achievements are staggering: from setting world records in relay races with a team of 90-year-olds in 2014 to breaking a world record for the 95-99 age group in the 800-meter race in 2018, Englert never ceased to amaze.

The Power of Perseverance
Despite his mother’s concerns about him being “too old” to run, Englert proved that age is just a number. He inspires others not to make age an excuse to stop living life to the fullest. His mantra is quite simple: “Keep moving, keep moving, keep moving.”

Conclusion and Takeaway
Roy Englert’s life serves as an enduring testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and a positive attitude. He is an example not only to veterans and service members but to everyone. The takeaway message here is never to let age or circumstances define what you’re capable of.

Remember, every stride we take towards our goals, no matter how small, is a victory in itself. So let’s keep moving, just like Roy Englert.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this incredible story, and we wish you a fantastic summer ahead. Stay strong, stay motivated, and above all, stay moving!

April 30, 2023April 30, 2023

Retired Navy Captain Royce Williams: A Heroic Tale of Bravery and Valor

Introduction

The story of retired Navy Captain Royce Williams is an inspiring tale of bravery and valor that epitomizes the dedication of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization. Williams’ declassified story of his epic 35-minute dogfight with Russian MiGs during the Korean War is a testament to the courage and bravery of the men and women who serve in the U.S. Navy.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the heroic tale of Captain Williams and how his story fits into the mission of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization.

Summary

Captain Royce Williams’ story is one of the most impressive airborne battles in naval aviation history. He engaged in a 35-minute dogfight with Russian MiGs during the Korean War, taking down at least five MiGs. Williams’ story was classified as top secret for over 65 years, and it was only in 2017 that the details of his heroic battle were declassified. Now, retired Navy Captain Williams is being recognized for his accomplishments, and his story serves as an inspiration to all Americans.

Key Takeaways

Retired Navy Captain Royce Williams engaged in a 35-minute dogfight with Russian MiGs during the Korean War, taking down at least five MiGs.

Williams’ story was classified as top secret for over 65 years, and it was only in 2017 that the details of his heroic battle were declassified.
Williams’ story serves as an inspiration to all Americans, and he is being recognized for his accomplishments.

Conclusion

The story of retired Navy Captain Royce Williams is an inspiring tale of bravery and valor that embodies the dedication of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization. Williams’ story serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who serve in the U.S. Navy.

We encourage all Americans to support our mission to strengthen the Navy and to honor the brave men and women who serve our country.

Elmer Royce Williams. (born 4 April 1925)is a retired United States Naval Aviator. He is known for his solo dogfight with seven Soviet pilots during the Korean War, which, according to The San Diego Union-Tribune, has been called “one of the greatest feats in aviation history” by military experts. A retired admiral and multiple members of Congress have been campaigning for him to receive the Medal of Honor for his exploit. On January 20, 2023, he received the Navy Cross – the highest military decoration given by the U.S. Navy – from Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro.

Elmer Royce Williams
Williams in 1973
Nickname(s)
Royce
Born
4 April 1925 (age 98)
Wilmot, South Dakota, U.S.
Service/branch

Years of service
1943–1980
Rank
Captain
Commands held
USS Eldorado
Known for
Downing four Soviet MiG-15s in one engagement during the Korean War
Battles/wars
Korean War
Vietnam War
Awards
Navy Cross
Distinguished Flying Cross
Legion of Merit with “V”
Bronze Star Medal
Meritorious Service Medal
Air Medal
Alma mater
University of Minnesota
Early life and military career
Medal of Honor campaign
Awards and decorations
In popular culture

Source: Wikipedia

April 6, 2023April 7, 2023

Virginia Siblings Make History as First Black Triplets to Enlist in the Navy

Sutton triplets, pictured attending elementary school
Inage courtesy of the
Sutton Famoly

The Sutton siblings from Virginia, Ayrion, Andrea, and Adrion, have recently made history by becoming the first Black triplets to enlist in the Navy.

Inspired by their parents, who met while serving on the USS Arctic in 1999, the siblings have made enlisting in the Navy a family affair. Adrion Sutton, the youngest of the triplets, first expressed interest in joining the Navy in high school.

The Sutton triplets have always been curious about their parents’ experiences serving in the Navy and have been encouraged by their parents to pursue their dreams. Their father, Andre Sutton, recently reenlisted and said that his children inspired him.

The Suttons’ enlistment represents a legacy of bravery and service within their family.

Key Takeaways:

The Sutton siblings from Virginia, Ayrion, Andrea, and Adrion, have become the first Black triplets to enlist in the Navy.
The siblings were inspired by their parents, who met while serving on the USS Arctic in 1999.
The Sutton triplets have always been curious about their parents’ experiences serving in the Navy and have been encouraged by their parents to pursue their dreams.
The siblings’ father, Andre Sutton, recently reenlisted and said that his children inspired him.
The Suttons’ enlistment represents a legacy of bravery and service within their family.
StrongerNavy.org Celebrates the Sutton Siblings’ Enlistment

At StrongerNavy.org, we celebrate the Sutton siblings’ historic enlistment in the Navy. Their story is a reminder of the importance of family and the role of the Navy in providing opportunities for growth and personal development.

We thank the Sutton siblings for their service and wish them all the best in their future endeavors. We also extend our gratitude to their parents and all service members who have made sacrifices to serve our country. StrongerNavy.org remains committed to advocating for a strong and capable Navy that can continue to defend our nation and protect our interests around the world.

March 27, 2023March 27, 2023

Cmdr. Donald A. Gary, U.S. Navy Medal of Honor recipient remembered – USS Franklin

Thanks to the U.S. Departnent of Defense and their “Medal of Honor Monday” program we are pleased to recognize Navy Lt. Cmdr. Donald A. Gary, Medal of Honor recipient.

Navy Lt. Cmdr. Donald A. Gary, Medal of Honor recipient.

Navy Cmdr. Donald A. Gary was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during World War II.

As an engineering officer on the USS Franklin, Gary saved hundreds of men who were trapped when the ship was nearly destroyed by the Japanese.

Despite intense flames, floodwaters, and threats of more explosions, Gary used his knowledge of the ship to lead the men to safety. He continued to rally the men to organize themselves and fight the fires still plaguing the ship.

Gary retired from active duty on June 1, 1950, and was advanced to the rank of commander thanks to his stellar service record. He passed away on April 9, 1977, and was buried at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in San Diego.

About USS Franklin

USS Franklin (CV-13, later CVA/CVS-13, then AVT-8)
Essex-class aircraft carrier, USS Franklin (CV-13) was commissioned on January 31, 1944, and departed for service in the Pacific during World War II. Arriving in the region, she took part in the Mariana Island Campaign where her aircraft provided aerial strikes for landing forces at Bonin Islands, Guam, Palau Islands amongst others.

USS Franklin (CV-13), March 19, 1945
Shown in smoke and flames as a result of an attack of Japanese dive-bomber.

Supporting the Peleliu landing in September, Franklin continued in her supporting role during the landing at Leyte in October, where she also participated in the Battle of Sibuyan Sea and the Battle of Cape Engano during the Battle of Leyte Gulf. On October 30, she was attacked by Japanese Kamikazes, which hit the flight deck and crashed through to the galley. Due to the damage, she departed for repairs at Puget Sound Navy Yard, Bremerton, Washington.

Returning for service in the Pacific in March 1945, Franklin joined Task Force 58 for air attacks on the Japanese homeland to support the Okinawa landings. On March 19, a Japanese aircraft attacked, with one of her bombs striking the flight deck. Penetrating the hangar deck, the bomb caused destruction and fires. In the resulting chaos, Lieutenant Commander Joseph T. O’Callahan, the Catholic chaplain, and Lieutenant Donald A. Gary, both were awarded the Medal of Honor for their heroic efforts attending to the wounded and saving numerous lives. In the attack, 807 men perished and 487 were wounded. Following temporary repairs, she made the journey to Brooklyn Navy Yard, New York City, for restorations.

Following World War II, Franklin was decommissioned in February 1947 at Bayonne, New Jersey. While in the reserve fleet, she was redesiginated as an attack aircraft carrier, CVA-13, in October 1952, then as antisubmarine support carrier, CVS-13, in August 1953. Finally, in May 1959, she was redesignated as an aircraft transport, AVT-8. In October 1964, Franklin was stricken from the Naval Reserve Register and was sold for scrap two years later.

March 13, 2023March 13, 2023

Heaving a Line: The Importance of Teamwork and Precision on Board the USS George H.W. Bush

Seaman Isaiah Harris and Seaman Devon Harris, both assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush, are the stars of the deck as the ship arrives in Souda Bay, Greece. As the vessel, along with the embarked staff of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10, gets ready for its scheduled port visit, these two sailors are hard at work heaving a line.

This may seem like a simple task, but it plays a crucial role on board a Navy ship. It’s a time-honored tradition that ensures safe mooring and docking, and for Seaman Harris and Seaman Harris, it’s an opportunity to showcase their teamwork and precision in a high-pressure environment.

Their dedication and hard work represent the kind of professionalism that makes the George H.W. Bush CSG a force to be reckoned with in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, where they defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

March 11, 2023March 11, 2023

Who’s Who – Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Michael M. Gilday

Americans for a Stronger Navy, a non-profit organization committed to advocating and supporting the United States Navy, is proud to announce the launch of its “Who’s Who” initiative. This exciting program is designed to showcase the achievements of individual sailors, units, and departments within the US Navy, highlighting the dedication and hard work of those who serve our nation. Each week, Americans for a Stronger Navy will feature a new “Who’s Who” honoree, providing a glimpse into the outstanding contributions made by members of the Navy community. Through this initiative, Americans for a Stronger Navy hopes to demonstrate the importance of a strong, capable Navy and to promote greater appreciation for the individuals who make it all possible.

The current Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) for the United States Navy is Admiral Michael M. Gilday. Admiral Gilday has a distinguished career spanning over 30 years in the Navy, and he assumed the role of CNO on August 22, 2019.

Admiral Gilday was born in Lowell, Massachusetts, on February 20, 1962. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering. He later earned a Master of Science degree in national security affairs from the National Defense University’s Industrial College of the Armed Forces. Throughout his career, Admiral Gilday has held a variety of positions, including commanding officer of the destroyer USS Benfold, commander of Destroyer Squadron 7, and commander of Carrier Strike Group 11.

Admiral Gilday’s vision for the future of the Navy centers around maintaining global maritime superiority through a combination of technological advancement and strategic partnerships. He has emphasized the importance of developing and deploying new technologies, such as unmanned systems and artificial intelligence, to enhance the Navy’s capabilities. He has also stressed the need for the Navy to work closely with international partners to maintain stability and security in key regions around the world.

We have been told but have not confirmed that, “one of Admiral Gilday’s notable personal characteristics is his love of music. He is an accomplished guitarist and singer, and he has performed with a number of bands throughout his career” said the source.

Admiral Gilday is also known for his commitment to diversity and inclusion within the Navy. He has been a vocal advocate for ensuring that all sailors are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or identity. In a speech to the crew of the USS Gerald R. Ford in 2020, Admiral Gilday emphasized that “diversity is a warfighting imperative” and called on all sailors to embrace the Navy’s core values of honor, courage, and commitment.

Overall, Admiral Michael M. Gilday is a highly respected and accomplished leader who is committed to maintaining the Navy’s global maritime superiority through innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity. His personal passion for music and his dedication to supporting charitable causes and promoting diversity and inclusion have earned him the respect and admiration of his fellow sailors and the broader military community.

The New York Times reports that, “He is a high-speed intellect with low-drag ego, which is a very rare quality at the upper echelons of any government,” said James G. Stavridis, a retired admiral and former NATO commander.

“He knows D.C. and how D.C. works, but he’s not part of the D.C. crowd,” said Adm. Scott H. Swift, a retired commander of the Navy’s Pacific Fleet. “He has an outsider’s understanding of the challenges facing the fleet.”

Indeed, colleagues and friends say he is a sailor’s admiral — a quiet, self-effacing, no-nonsense officer who is comfortable in his own skin making what might be politically unpopular decisions.

Admiral Mike Gilday is the son of a Navy Sailor. A surface warfare officer, he is a native of Lowell, Massachusetts and a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy. He holds master’s degrees from the Harvard Kennedy School and the National War College.

At sea, he deployed with USS Chandler (DDG 996), USS Princeton (CG 59), and USS Gettysburg (CG 64). He commanded destroyers USS Higgins (DDG 76) and USS Benfold (DDG 65) and subsequently, commanded Destroyer Squadron 7, serving as sea combat commander for the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group.

As a flag officer, he served as commander Carrier Strike Group 8 embarked aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), and as commander, U.S. Fleet Cyber Command and U.S 10th Fleet.

His staff assignments include the Bureau of Naval Personnel; staff of the Chief of Naval Operations, and staff of the Vice Chief of Naval Operations. Joint assignments include executive assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and naval aide to the President.

As a flag officer, he served in joint positions as director of operations for NATO’s Joint Force Command Lisbon; as chief of staff for Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO; director of operations, J3, for U.S. Cyber Command; and as director of operations, J3, for the Joint Staff. He recently served as director, Joint Staff.

He has served on teams that have been recognized with numerous awards and is the recipient of the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal (four awards), Legion of Merit (three awards), Bronze Star, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat “V,” and the Combat Action Ribbon.

Gilday began serving as the 32nd Chief of Naval Operations August 22, 2019.

March 9, 2023March 9, 2023

Tell us Your Story – Watchstanders of USS Mobile: The Bridge and Beyond

What’s inside

This “Tell us Your Story” blog post is dedicated to the Sailors of the USS Mobile. This post shares a story about those that serve on the USS Mobile. Also included is key takeaways of an article written by a crew member of the USS Mobile and a note of thanks to the crew from the founding members of the Americans for a Stronger Navy.

Watchstanders

Watchstanders on board the USS Mobile, a naval vessel that provides support to military and humanitarian missions around the world play an important role. These watchstanders are responsible for operating the ship’s various systems, maintaining communications, and ensuring the safety and security of the crew and the ship itself. The article below provides insight into the day-to-day experiences of the watchstanders, including the challenges they face and the satisfaction they derive from their work. The article emphasizes the vital importance of watchstanders in ensuring the success of naval missions and protecting the interests of the United States.

Key takeaways

“This Tell us Your Story” blog post discusses the crucial role of watchstanders aboard the USS Mobile in operating systems, maintaining communication, and ensuring the safety of the crew and ship.
Whether it is plotting the ship’s course, managing the decks, signaling to a helicopter during flight quarters or compiling a training report, Sailors aboard Mobile are supporting the needs of the ship and each other which, in turn, supports the mission
It also highlights the challenges and rewards of their work and emphasizes their importance in supporting military and humanitarian missions.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Victoria Granado:

Aboard Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Mobile (LCS 26), Sailors of varying rank and rate stand watch on the ship’s bridge – from driving the ship to watching the ocean surface for contacts. Twenty-four hours a day, Mobile’s Sailors man their watch stations. Optimally-manned, LCS demand each Sailor perform the duties of three legacy Sailors.

Boatswain’s Mate Chief Petty Officer Jesus Hernandez has served every one of his 19 years in the U.S Navy on destroyers and cruisers. Though no stranger to standing watch on a smaller ship, Hernandez noted some significant differences during his first deployment on an LCS. The assigning of watches that are typically reserved for officers are also assigned to senior enlisted Sailors.

“I stand Junior Officer of the Deck,” said Hernandez. “On this deck it’s a mixture of Quartermaster of the Watch, Boatswain’s Mate of the Watch and everything else that comes with being a JOOD. An LCS is completely different from any other ship I have been on.”

Hernandez explained that on ships with a traditional watch configuration there would be a minimum of three officers on the bridge at one time, each with a very specific role to fill.

“On the Mobile, a lot of duties and functions are combined into one watch,” continued Hernandez. “Which means a much longer and intensive training pipeline to get qualified.”

To stand JOOD on Mobile, Hernandez took courses to learn how to drive the ship as well as how to operate the ship’s navigation system. As the ship’s Deck Leading Chief Petty Officer, Hernandez stands his watches and carries out his duties in anchoring evolutions, flight deck evolutions, small boat operations, and search and rescue operations.

Lt. Calvin Davies, navigator for Mobile, stands watch as Officer of the Deck and is also well acquainted with the consolidation of watch positions.

“When I’m standing watch on the bridge, I’m the OOD, the helmsman and the conning officer all wrapped up into one,” said Davies.

When not on the bridge, Davies serves as the legal officer, the training officer, and is the head of the ship’s administration department.

“It’s great that my main billet as the ship’s navigator goes hand-in-hand with my watch standing,” said Davies. “Outside of that, I am constantly considering what perspective I need to approach something. From a legal officer’s perspective? Or a training officer’s?”

Assuming multiple and varied responsibilities extends to Mobile’s junior enlisted as well. For instance, Sonar Technician (Surface) 2nd Class Michelle Venegas, from Phoenix, Ariz., stands watch as a lookout on the bridge wings.

“I have a lot of professional pride in being a lookout for the ship,” said Venegas. “We’re the ‘watchful eye’ for the crew. It’s important that the rest of the team on the bridge has a visual of what is out there outside of what the radars can tell them.”

When not scanning the horizon for surface contacts, Venegas is the supervisor for her work center, the command’s training petty officer, the secretary for the Junior Enlisted Association and administrator of official correspondence for the entire crew.
Whether it is plotting the ship’s course, signaling to a helicopter during flight quarters or compiling a training report, Sailors aboard Mobile are supporting the needs of the ship and each other which, in turn, supports the mission.

“Serving on an LCS has really shown me what a Sailor is capable of,” said Hernandez. “It’s been exciting to see how we can work together and sync up to get the job done.”

Littoral Combat Ships are fast, optimally-manned, mission-tailored surface combatants that operate in near-shore and open-ocean environments, winning against 21st-century coastal threats. LCS integrate with joint, combined, manned and unmanned teams to support forward-presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence missions around the globe.

Letter from the Founding Members of the Americans for a Stronger Navy to the crew of the USS Mobile

Dear Watchstanders of USS Mobile: The Bridge and Beyond,

On behalf of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we would like to express our gratitude for your article highlighting the dedication and sacrifice of the watchstanders aboard the USS Mobile. We recognize the vital role that watchstanders play in ensuring the success of naval missions and protecting the interests of the United States.

We also appreciate the challenges that come with this critical responsibility and the rewards that come with ensuring the safety and security of the crew and ship. We are committed to supporting the watchstanders and all members of the Navy by advocating for a stronger Navy and ensuring that they have the resources and support they need to carry out their duties effectively.

Thank you for shedding light on the crucial work of the watchstanders aboard the USS Mobile, and please convey our appreciation to them and the entire crew for their service and sacrifice.

Sincerely,
Americans for a Stronger Navy

March 8, 2023March 8, 2023

Petty Officer 2nd Class Brittani Raub,recognized as Junior Sailor of the Year

Brittani Raub, a 2015 graduate of Corning Painted Post High School and native of Corning, New York, was recognized as Junior Sailor of the Year aboard the USS George Washington. She is a Petty Officer 2nd Class and was selected by a board of senior enlisted for her exemplary service. The USS George Washington is currently undergoing refueling and complex overhaul work at the Newport News Shipyard, including the refueling of its two nuclear reactors and significant repairs, upgrades, and modernization.