In April of 1965 reported to the USS Colonial (LSD-18).   After being assigned to the Shipfitters shop I started my training in working with metals and learning how to operate a cutting torch and welding stinger, as well as the shipboard plumbing. Maintained the ships balllasting system. I reported on board as a FA (Fireman Apprentice) and departed as a SFM2 (Shipfitter Metalsmith Second Class Petty Officer)

In March of 1968 I reenlisted for orders to the Submarine tender the USS Nereus (AS-17). Haven't found a web page yet for the Nereus, so if you do please send it to me. I was assigned to R-1 Division shop 11-A (Shipfitter Shop). We worked on all the metal structures of the Submarines. Including the pressure hull. Here is where I gained a lot of knowledge in the special requirements for working with HY-80/100 and HTS. I attended a four week course in the Heat treating of metals. I was advanced to SF1 (E-6) in April of 1969.

In May of 1970 I reported to the USS Garrett County (LST-786). I was assigned to R Division as the leading Shipfitter. Our main purpose in life was to maintain the aluminum and fiberglass structures of the river boats.

In April of 1971 I got out of the Navy and did everything from dig fence post holes to work as a journeyman pipefitter at National Steel and Shipbuilding in San Diego, CA. There was something missing that I had gotten use to. The Navy way.

In December of 1971 I went back in and was assigned to the tender the USS Prairie (AD-15). I was assigned to R-1 Division and worked in 11-A Shipfitter shop.

In December of 1973 I reenlisted for the Navy's Nondestructive testing of metals school (NDT). Here I learned the various inspection methods used to inspect welds and parts.

On my graduation, in September 1974, I was sent to the submarine tender USS Canopus (AS-34) in Holy Loch, Scotland. During this time period I had passed the exam and been selected for Chief Petty Officer, but due to a Federal pay freeze invoked by President Ford I didn't get advanced till August of 1975.

In November of 1975 the USS Holland (AS-32) relieved the Canopus as the on station tender in Holy Loch and I crossed decked. In route I returned to Bettis and certified as a NAVSEA test Examiner in VT,PT,MT, and RT and went to San Diego and Certified as an Examiner for Mil-Std-271 in VT,PT,MT,UT,and RT. While on the Holland I submitted my application for the Navy's LDO Program.

On reporting to the Submarine Support Facility, in September of 1976, in New London, CT. I found out I had been selected for a commission under the LDO program. I worked as the NAVSEA Test Examiner at the Sub Base till I was Commissioned in April of 1977.

On my graduation from Damage Control Officer school in Philadelphia I was assigned as the DCA on the USS Fulton (AS-11).

In July of 1979 I reported to the USS Constellation (CV-64) as the Assistant DCA. Shortly after reporting on board the DCA developed heart problems and was medivaced from the ship. I filled the DCA billet through refresher training earning the highest grade ever awarded to a carrier in Damage Control by FTG San Diego. The skipper said I did so good he was going to let me keep the job for the following deployment.

In June 1981 I reported as the Officer In Charge of the Brig at Naval Station Charleston, SC. Don't believe anything they tell you about LDOs being restricted to their specific field.

In December of 1983 I reported as the Assistant Repair Officer on the USS Sierra (AD-18)
I was advanced to Lieutenant Commander in the Spring of 1984.

In February 1987 I was assigned to SIMA Charleston, SC, till my retirement in May of 1988.

In my long a successful career I had the opportunity to work for some wonderful leaders. When I look back on the advice and direction I was provided I don't think I ever told them thanks. If any of you have stumbled on this page I hope you know the role you played and "THANK YOU"