As I reflect tonight, I realize that there are some good people out there.
Even though I fall into the trap of sin, and am not always good.
I strive to always do right.
I find my calling in my writings, art, and in watching my shows on my DVR.
I like to watch Days of Our Lives.
This can be strange, me being a man.
I reflect on my service in the Navy,
starting out on the Battleship New Jersey BB-62,
from being a lowly Seaman, to becoming a Boatswains mate 3rd class,
to working on deck and as a Lower Powder Door Operator during General Quarters,
to becoming a Boatswains mate 2nd class and a boat coxswain,
to steering the ships helm, and navigating.
To working on a boarding team on the USS Underwood FFG-36,
and saving children from being trafficked.
This still haunts my dreams.
To crossing to cook and working in the pantry on the
USS Richmond K, Turner CG-20,
to working as a Damage Control Petty Officer, and later a 3M coordinator.
To working as the Stateroom Supervisor on the USS Stennis CVN-74,
and later as a Divisional Career Counselor and Training Petty Officer.
To working as the Blue Team Security Watch Supervisor in Newport Rhode Island,
and later on the Auxiliary Security Force, and then on 40mm howitzer gun crew.
Then as the Security Self Defense Instructor teaching Jujitsu,
and lastly as the 680 Building Petty Officer.
To working as the Speed-line Supervisor in the Galley on the
USS Belleauwood LHA3,
to becoming a Master At Arms First Class,
and working as a Cell Block Supervisor in the Brig,
and on the security detail in Iraq.
To teaching a karate class in the ships gym,
and later became the Ships Self Defense Instructor.
To getting injured by a cabinet, on a ladder-well,
causing damage to my neck, shoulder, spine, and right knee.
Causing tingling and pain.
To going to Great Lakes for rehab,
and working with the Sea Cadet Core,
becoming a Lieutenant.
To retiring from the Navy in 2007 after 23 years of Naval service.
To tutoring and mentoring children, and inspiring others.
To those that are good to me.
Those restaurants and theaters that give me a military discount,
and those who help fellow veterans,
those who do good well and even pay for the person behind them in line.
I give a shout out to one who wants to help me get the benefits I earned.
To those that care for others, and have a big heart.
As I care for others, and have a big heart.
I salute you. God be with you.
