In The Navy

MY JOB I’ve been on the USS FRANK CABLE (AS40) since June of 97. The ship’s primary mission is to repair war ships and submarines. My job as Supply Officer is to provide all the logistical support. This includes parts, money, mail, services, meals, computer processing, and the kitchen sink. The ship spends 50% of its time away from Guam, with a typical deployment cycle of about 2 months in Japan, followed by two months back in Guam. I’ve really enjoyed the trips to Japan, especially Tokyo. The ship has also made port visits to Hong Kong and Korea, and will soon be visiting Australia. When I got orders to this ship, I was NOT looking forward to going back to another stress filled, emotionally exhausting sea tour like my other ship tours were. But thanks primarily to the best Commanding Officer I have ever known, and a great crew, this has been one of the most enjoyable tours in my career.

MY CAREER We decided to go to Guam instead of retire in San Diego for two reasons: the possibility of getting promoted, and the opportunity to travel. Thankfully, it paid off. We’ve traveled as much as time and money has allowed, and in June I was selected for Captain. Unfortunately, as an O-6 that also meant my chances of returning to San Diego were slim. Not surprisingly, I recently learned I’ll be getting orders to Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. However, what makes these orders interesting is that I grew up near there as a little boy, and I have many very fond memories. Even more ironic, my dad worked at the same place that I’ll be working at, 40 years later!

"Congratulations Captain Will"

Looks like I’ll be staying in the Navy a few more years. Hopefully, I’ll be able to get orders back to San Diego after this next tour. One thing’s for sure, it’ll be a lot easier to come home for the Holidays from Pennsylvania than it is from Guam. We sure missed being with all our families on Christmas. Email me at [email protected] Return...