Going Ashore

Friday was the last time I had the privilege to wear this uniform. The past thirty years have been a great adventure of working for, with and leading some of the greatest Americans I could imagine. The list of mentors who shaped my career is long, and the list of Sailors, Marines and even a few Airmen who carried me over the years would dwarf the New York City phone book. I can neither name you all nor give you the credit you are due. 

               I have to mention Pete Young, who mentored the un-mentor-able and demonstrated the passion and responsibility for taking care of the Sailors entrusted to us as Naval Officers. Big Rich Bryant, who taught me submarines were fun. Chris Kline, who gave me room to run, and Phil Sawyer, who showed me enormous trust. 

               I don't remember when we didn't know each other, Chris & Christy Dickerson, and the rest of the C5+M+P+S clan, our oldest and dearest friends. Christian, thanks for taking the great pictures for me. This is why we do this job.

               My family, Jennifer, Wilmer, & Emma, I have dragged you around the world for 30 years (or some subset thereof). I could not have had the successes I did without Jennifer's constant support and protection (sometimes from myself); she has been the light that guided me in the dark.

Now on to the next adventure.