Best Moment
Attending the NHA Symposium in Jacksonville in support of the TSAS program with CAPT Angus Rupert. I also got to meet up with a few HSL-34 squadron mates including Kevin Coyne who was with me for that scary FCF on the Ponce
Worst Moment
Getting ill from a wavy pattern on I-10 on the drive back to Pensacola
Chain of Command
CAPT Angus Rupert
Other Memories
The photo taken of me with Angus was the last time I wore a uniform for this country. I didn't think it would go by so quickly.
Criteria The Joint Service Commendation Medal is awarded in the name of the Secretary of Defense to members of the Armed Forces who, while assigned to a joint activity, distinguish themselves by outstanding ac... The Joint Service Commendation Medal is awarded in the name of the Secretary of Defense to members of the Armed Forces who, while assigned to a joint activity, distinguish themselves by outstanding achievement or meritorious service, but not to an extent that would justify award of the Defense Meritorious Service Medal. MoreHide
Comments This was an end of career award that was given to me when I was medically retired from my Air Operations Officer position with the MCC Northwood staff. I wish it hadn't ended so soon, but I did get t... This was an end of career award that was given to me when I was medically retired from my Air Operations Officer position with the MCC Northwood staff. I wish it hadn't ended so soon, but I did get to participate in one NATO exercise in the London area before my career ended. MoreHide
Best Moment
Delivering chocolate bunnies to staff stuck in Norfolk for the Easter weekend.
Worst Moment
Being denied an Admiral's Mast and being demobilized with an incorrect diagnosis of Mal De Debarqment syndrome. It took two more years to finally get the correct diagnosis (Meniere's Disease) and realize I wouldn't be healed.
Also watching BU3 Bond being demobilized with an unhealed shoulder. I spoke up, and he didn't deserve that.
Chain of Command
Al Carper (OIC) I called him Switzerland (he had to keep the peace between me and BUPERS) Glen Gaborko (MO) Cheryl Hawthorne (Admin/Personell)
Other Memories
Continually fighting with CDR Stickney at BUPERS about my medical treatment and countering every move he did to try to screw me over.
Running into Anne Marie Looney when I went to meet the CMAR Chief of Staff. I hadn't seen her since both our dets were on the Ponce together.
Being brought back to the center to help mobilize a logistics unit. They mainly wanted me because I look intimidating and they didn't want any issues. The only issue was one guy failed the dental readiness and couldn�??t deploy. "If you can't bite, you can't fight"
Other Memories
Being on the third floor of the Safety Center during an earthquake. I was thinking, this sure feels like and earthquake, but in Norfolk?
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievem... The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement or meritorious service (but not of sufficient nature to warrant a higher decoration). MoreHide
Comments This was awarded to me by the Commodore of Training Wing Five for my performance as the Operations Officer for the Helicopter Instructor Training Unit. I was mobilized after 9/11 and with the stop lo... This was awarded to me by the Commodore of Training Wing Five for my performance as the Operations Officer for the Helicopter Instructor Training Unit. I was mobilized after 9/11 and with the stop loss of all Marine pilots from operational squadrons, we needed to produce over 50 new helicopter instructors in one year. Even with losing one unit member and one instructor under training to a mishap, we met the requirement. MoreHide
Criteria Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have participated in or served in support of Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001 and to a future date to be determined... Individuals authorized the award of this medal must have participated in or served in support of Global War on Terrorism operations on or after September 11, 2001 and to a future date to be determined. MoreHide
Best Friends
John Scott an old friend from Tulane and another Seasprite pilot was able to bring me on at the Naval Safety Center as a stash job while I was on medical hold.
Best Moment
When the staff at Portsmouth Naval Hospital ran an ENG exam and I finally had proof that there was something measurably wrong with my right ear. It was later determined I had Meniere's Disease and would be medically retired for this issue in 2006.
I was blessed to have a medical officer (Glen Gaborko) at the mobilization center who had a wife with Meniere's Disease. When he heard about my symptoms, he tried his best to get me a proper diagnosis prior to demobilizing. After I retired, I ended up moving to the town next to his.
Worst Moment
Driving across the southern section of Virginia with my sunroof open. The flickering shadows from the bare trees made me so nauseous I almost pulled over and puked. It was at this point, I knew I had a serious medical issue that needed to be cured or at least properly diagnosed.
Chain of Command
Al Carper (OINC) Glen Gaborko (MO) Cheryl Hawthorne (Admin/Personell)
Other Memories
Running into a Marine I took cross country as a student, seeing the IUT that was injured in the HITU helo mishap, seeing John Scott an old classmate from Tulane who hooked me up with the stash slot and Chuck Huff the former Det ALFA pilot I did an H2P/H2P flight with at HSL-30.
While running errands, bumping into some former HT-18 IPs Terri Yaekel and Wild Bill Frederick.
Best Moment
Finding out I was selected for O-5 and successfully command screened.
Worst Moment
Waiting to hotseat into an aircraft that had a tail rotor delaminate and crashed on Pensacola Beach. Both flight crew broke their backs.
Chain of Command
LCDR Matta Callan, USCG (OIC) I was the Operations Officer and had a really good scheduling assistant who kept me available to fly. We trained an entire squadron worth of instructors in one year.
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous ... The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous or meritorious achievement which renders that unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar service, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Navy Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Armed Forces Reserve Medal is awarded to United States Armed Forces Reserve component members (or former members) who complete (or have completed) a total of ten years service. This service need n... The Armed Forces Reserve Medal is awarded to United States Armed Forces Reserve component members (or former members) who complete (or have completed) a total of ten years service. This service need not be consecutive, if it was performed within a period of twelve consecutive years. For the purpose of this award service as a member of a Reserve component MoreHide
Description Operation Noble Eagle began with the mobilization of thousands of National Guard and reserve personnel to perform security missions on military installations, airports and other potential targets suchOperation Noble Eagle began with the mobilization of thousands of National Guard and reserve personnel to perform security missions on military installations, airports and other potential targets such as bridges, power plants, and port facilities. These reservists were called to active duty under a mobilization authority known as a partial mobilization (10 USC 12302). In a time of national emergency declared by the President, partial mobilization authorizes the President to order members of the ready reserve to active duty for a period not to exceed 24 consecutive months. Additionally, in 2001 and 2002, thousands of members of the national guard were activated at the order of their respective governors to provide additional security at airports. They were called up under Title 32 of the U.S. Code, which means they were under state control, but with federal pay and benefits.[1] The Royal Canadian Air Force assisted in providing defense of the northern border of the United States. The United States Army's 759th Military Police Battalion, 144th Military Police Company and the 177th Military Police Brigade were assigned the task of protecting the White House, the Pentagon and the Capitol, along with other Army National Guard units that were tasked with augmenting the Air Force's air defense perimeter around the National Capital Region.
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Comments This was awarded to me for my selection as the Training Wing Five Reserve Detachment Instructor of the Year for 2000. While going to school full-time for my MA at UWF, I flew over 300 hours as a heli... This was awarded to me for my selection as the Training Wing Five Reserve Detachment Instructor of the Year for 2000. While going to school full-time for my MA at UWF, I flew over 300 hours as a helicopter flight instructor for HT-18. MoreHide
Best Friends
Moses Everett, Paul Kratochwill, E.C. Helme, Harry Schmidt, and Ron Adamo
Best Moment
Telling Moses he had fresh skivvies on his rack after he returned 3 days after what should have been one afternoon on a Cyclone class PC boat. The boat got rerouted and it took forever to get him back to our ship.
Having Commodore Sadler beg for mercy after stating he felt we weren't keeping him sufficiently informed about unit status during an ASW exercise. We kept him up the rest of the night and he asked for 5 minutes so he could at least get a shower. He knew he had released the beast, but was too proud to admit it.
Getting catapulted off the Enterprise in the COD. It was my first CAT and the Radio Man looked at me for guidance. He said "Sir, I heard this thing will rip the soul out of your body!" . I said, I don't know about that, but I would definitely tighten up your straps. I don't care how tight you make them, you still feel like you are going to hit the seat in front of you.
Worst Moment
Usually anything that involved the first CSO we had. Probably the worst was when Moses called me in Norfolk almost in tears with the news he had been extended.
Other Memories
Watching everyone flying out of their seats when our C-130 hit turbulence. I felt the onset and immediately grabbed my seat. The rest of the looked at me funny and then were suspended in air. I told them, if the pilot grabs something in flight, they should too.
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievem... The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement or meritorious service (but not of sufficient nature to warrant a higher decoration). MoreHide
Comments This was an end of tour reward for my tour as the Air Operations and Secret Control Officer for CDS-20. It was a busy tour that included moving all the classified information from our original locati... This was an end of tour reward for my tour as the Air Operations and Secret Control Officer for CDS-20. It was a busy tour that included moving all the classified information from our original location at Naval Station Charleston to Naval Station Norfolk while in the middle of workups for the Enterprise Battle Groups 1996 Med deployment. It also covered my performance as the Helicopter Element Coordinator for US and UK assets during PURPLE STAR 96, the largest US/UK exercise since World War II. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Comments Awarded for planning and coordinating a multiple aircraft and multiple missile variant missile exercise for the Enterprise battle group. The exercise included the first over-the-shoulder shot of a Pe... Awarded for planning and coordinating a multiple aircraft and multiple missile variant missile exercise for the Enterprise battle group. The exercise included the first over-the-shoulder shot of a Penguin Missile by an SH-60B, Harpoon by S-3, Maverick by P-3C, and SM2 missiles from multiple surface ships. We ran the exercise from the USS Briscoe and didn't receive the Air Tasking Order. I was translating aircraft callsigns and side numbers to keep the Commodore informed about the progress of the exercise.
I received this award the same day I received my first Navy Commendation medal. MoreHide
Worst Moment
The morning of our Missile Exercise. We didn't receive the Air Tasking Order message and when the range safety officer flew by the hulk, the artificial water line was not spraying water.
I had written the side number, callsign, and airframe rosetta stone in my notebook on a previous trip to NAS Cecil Field. I quickly looked up that info. I then let the Commodore decide if he wanted to take a chance on the hulk. The range officer said water was coming out of the artificial water line but it wasn't spraying. My Commodore made the choice to proceed and everything worked except the S-3 launched Harpoon that failed after launch from the aircraft.
Criteria The Humanitarian Service Medal is an individual award, presented to individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian... The Humanitarian Service Medal is an individual award, presented to individuals who are physically present at the site of immediate relief and who directly contribute to and influence the humanitarian action. The Humanitarian Service Medal is only awarded for service during the identified "period of immediate relief;" eligibility for the Humanitarian Service Medal terminates once (if) the humanitarian action evolves into an "established ongoing operation beyond the initial emergency condition." MoreHide
Criteria The Special Operations Service Ribbon is awarded to personnel of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (and certain other individuals) who participate in significant numbers in... The Special Operations Service Ribbon is awarded to personnel of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (and certain other individuals) who participate in significant numbers in a Coast Guard special operation, not involving combat, and who have not been recognized by another service award for the same operation. MoreHide
Criteria The Special Operations Service Ribbon is awarded to personnel of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (and certain other individuals) who participate in significant numbers in... The Special Operations Service Ribbon is awarded to personnel of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (and certain other individuals) who participate in significant numbers in a Coast Guard special operation, not involving combat, and who have not been recognized by another service award for the same operation. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Comments
End of my Air Operations Officer tour at CDS-36. The Commodore wanted it to be a Navy Comm, but since I was only there 10 months prior to the unit closing, the highest they could do was a NAM.
Criteria The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west ... The Southwest Asia Service Medal is awarded for service in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees North latitude and west of 68 degrees East longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Individuals serving between January 17, 1991, and November 30, 1995, in Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Syria, and Jordan (including their air space and territorial waters) are also eligible; however, they must have directly supported combat operations (e.g., embassy guards are not eligible). MoreHide
Description The U.S. and allied warships in CJTF 120 boarded over 600 ships during the operations’ first five months, and the big ships’ effectiveness soon drove embargo-busting smugglers to use vessels to carry The U.S. and allied warships in CJTF 120 boarded over 600 ships during the operations’ first five months, and the big ships’ effectiveness soon drove embargo-busting smugglers to use vessels to carry contraband along shallow coastal routes beyond the larger ships’ reach.
CJTF 120 selected the US Special Operations Command Cyclone-class patrol craft (PC) as the best response to the smugglers’ new tactic. The PCs were new to USSOCOM’s inventory, and needed sea duty certification before assignment to Haiti. After being certified for participating in exercise Agile Provider, the USS Cyclone and the USS Tempest departed for Guantanano, Cuba, on 24 May to participate in Support Democracy.
On 30 May, CJTF 120 directed the PCs to begin operations with the warships off the north Haitian coast. The plan to integrate the PCs gradually into the interdiction operation ended when the ships, on their very first voyage, encountered a Bahamian sailing vessel trying to skirt the embargo. As the smugglers’ vessel headed for Port-au-Prince, the Cyclone ordered it to stand clear of the Haitian coast, but the vessels did not heave to until Cyclone fired warning flares and launched a rigid hull inflated boat (RIB) with SEALs aboard. The vessel attempted to play a waiting game that night, but at first light a combined party from the Cyclone and the HMCS Terra Nova – six Canadians and three SEALs – conducted a boarding and search operation. They found embargoed goods, and the Cyclone towed this vessel to Guatanamo.
By 23 June 1994, the CTJF 120 fleet had boarded over 1,100 ships, but embargoed goods flowed steadily into Haiti from neighboring Dominican Republic. General John M. Shalikashvili, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, gave approval for the PCs to conduct patrols with Dominican Republic ships. On 11 July 1994, SEALs from the Cyclone boarded and cleared the Vinland Saga, a Danish vessel carrying a cargo of wheal flour. CJTF 120 directed Cyclone and Tempest to patrol the inner areas of the coast. These operations provided an opportunity to check sea traffic and collect information. The USS Hurricane and USS Monsoon patrol craft replaced the Cyclone and Tempest in September.
Because of the continuing political repression in Haiti, the Clinton Administration sought UN Security Council approval for an invasion and occupation of Haiti if the sanctions failed to restore Aristide to the presidency. The Council granted its approval on 31 July 1994. The invasion plan had two phases: first, a 15,000 multinational force would invade, restore public order, and reinstate Aristide; subsequently 6,000 UN forces would train a new Haitian police force to maintain order. Accordingly, US Army, Air Force, and Navy SOF supported the XVII Airborne Corps in planning for a full scale invasion of Haiti. The special operations portion of the plan envisioned the takedown of key governmental sites followed by a link-up with conventional forces, similar to what SOF had done for the invasion of Panama in 1989. After the main takedown, Special Forces teams were to secure the countryside. To serve as the SOF mobility and launching platform, an aircraft carrier, USS America, was added to the force package in spring 1994. ... More
Description In 1994, the Coast Guard was involved in its largest peacetime operation since the Vietnam war, responding to two mass migrations at the same time -- first from Haiti, then from Cuba. Over 63,000 migrIn 1994, the Coast Guard was involved in its largest peacetime operation since the Vietnam war, responding to two mass migrations at the same time -- first from Haiti, then from Cuba. Over 63,000 migrants were rescued and prevented from illegally entering the US in Operations ABLE MANNER and ABLE VIGIL. At its height, Operation ABLE MANNER involved 17 US Coast Guard vessels, patrolling the coast of Haiti while Operation ABLE VIGIL involved 38 Coast Guard cutters patrolling the Straits of Florida.... More
Best Moment
Finding Barq's Rootbeer in the drink machine. If you were from New Orleans, you'd understand.
When the ship's CO poked his head in my stateroom and in the Pilipino Monkey sing song said my Helicopter Element Coordinator call sign. Yankee Lima, to which I responded without seeing who it was, I want to F*** You! Which as it turned out he WAS trying to do by messing with my flight schedule.
Worst Moment
My Commodore's mother passed away during our cruise. He was thinking he had to fly back to the East Coast and then pay for his own flight to San Diego. I realized we were about the same distance from San Diego as we were from Philadelphia and was able to arrange for a NALO flight to San Diego.
We were headed back to Charleston at the end of the FY. NALO cancelled our flight and for the next three days I was in Sigonella trying to make miracles happen. We eventually got a flight (after October 1st).
Other Memories
Running into an old Seasprite pilot, Jeff Eaton. He was the MO on Spruance's Air DET. He was not enjoying his deployment and was definitely happy to have a familiar face to hang out with.
Other Memories
Temporarily assigned to this ship during turnover to the Coast Guard squadron staff. It was my first experience on a USNS vessel. It was pretty swanky for a tin can sailor.
Best Moment
Watching the sunrise while sitting in the cockpit after my final flight in the SH-2F Seasprite helicopter.
Other Memories
This was a last minute assignment as the Maintenance Officer to fill in for Mike Maquera (who was with me on my first cruise on the USS Connole). My fly-off was cancelled when tires were damaged during rough seas fuel spillage. I was supposed to get a NALO flight out of the Naval Station in Mobile, but it was cancelled. So, my family came over from Mississippi and picked me up and I got to spend another weekend in New Orleans.
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achieveme... The Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal may be awarded to members of the Armed Forces in the grades of lieutenant commander (or major) and below. It is awarded for meritorious service or achievement in either combat or noncombat based on sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature but which does not warrant a Navy Commendation Medal or higher. It may not be awarded for service involving participation in aerial flight after January 1, 1969. MoreHide
Comments End of Tour Award for performance as Assistant Operations Officer. I was acting Operations Officer for the last week of each of the last three quarters of the FY. The Operations Officer had to perfo... End of Tour Award for performance as Assistant Operations Officer. I was acting Operations Officer for the last week of each of the last three quarters of the FY. The Operations Officer had to perform week one workups each time. We ended up using OPTAR to 99.97% that year. I also got our squadron budget so high for the next FY that HSL-32 sent their Assistant Operations Officer over for training. MoreHide
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous ... The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous or meritorious achievement which renders that unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar service, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Navy Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Criteria The Special Operations Service Ribbon is awarded to personnel of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (and certain other individuals) who participate in significant numbers in... The Special Operations Service Ribbon is awarded to personnel of the Armed Forces serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard (and certain other individuals) who participate in significant numbers in a Coast Guard special operation, not involving combat, and who have not been recognized by another service award for the same operation. MoreHide
Criteria Awarded to members of the Military Coalition who served in support of Operation Desert Shield or Desert Storm in one or more of the following areas between 2 August 1990 and 31 August 1993: Persian Gu... Awarded to members of the Military Coalition who served in support of Operation Desert Shield or Desert Storm in one or more of the following areas between 2 August 1990 and 31 August 1993: Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, that portion of the Arabian Sea that lies north of 10 degrees north latitude and west of 68 degrees east longitude, as well as the total land areas of Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. MoreHide
Maritime Interception Operations (MIO) is a coalition effort that enforces United Nations Security Council Resolutions (UNSCR) imposed against Iraq. Unabated since August 1990, MIO, initiated in the w
Maritime Interception Operations (MIO) is a coalition effort that enforces United Nations Security Council Resolutions (UNSCR) imposed against Iraq. Unabated since August 1990, MIO, initiated in the wake of Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, continues to check merchant vessel traffic in the Arabian Gulf.
The United Nations prohibits cargo originating from Iraq and any imports not accompanied by a U.N. authorization letter. Although, under the food for oil agreement, Iraq can sell oil and import approved goods into Iraq.
Naval interdiction took place in the Persian Gulf, during Operation Southern Watch. They took place between the end of Operation Desert Storm in 1991 and the beginning of the Iraq War in 2003. These operations were conducted to ensure Saddam Hussein was not smuggling his oil out of Iraq, in violation of United Nations sanctions against Iraq. The operations involved the stopping and boarding of any and all ships transiting the Persian Gulf, and the Strait of Hormuz, to search for oil, weapons, and certain fugitives from justice. The first submarine to take part in these operations was the USS Asheville (SSN-758), in March and April 2000.
Best Friends
Greg Gallagher, Kevin Coyne, Dean Wojcik, Rob Kalin, and Anne Marie Looney
Best Moment
When Mike Hollister tried to get me in trouble for landing by request under the control tower and the OIC said at that seastate it was no different than landing on the spot in flight school.
Flying with Rob from 50 ft to 12500 ft until his hands had a burning sensation and we iced up the windscreen on the way back down.
Dean running in the stateroom yelling, I've been in here the whole time. A few minutes later, the XO opened the stateroom door asking if we knew who had covered the flight deck with bubbles.
Rob and Dean playing Tetris on my notebook yelling, I need a straight piece
Worst Moment
Not sure if it was the flight where Mike Hollister tried killing me multiple times on a single flight (Loss of SA prior to takeoff not knowing wind direction and arguing when I corrected him, Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness possible Overtorque takeoff (from still not understanding actual wind direction), and not lowering the gear on Final).
But probably the worst was doing a functional checkflight in rough seas with the aircraft spotted abeam the ship. The ship would not let us use our own deck crew. When they pulled the chocks and chains, they were slowly counting the chains as the aircraft started sliding backwards towards the edge of the deck. Thinking the parking brake was not set and since I had no brake pedals on my side, I called Brakes, Brakes, Brakes and Kevin stomped on the brakes. Well, apparently the brakes were set, and we started accelerating backwards towards the rapidly approaching deck edge. I shouted LIFT, LIFT, LIFT and Kevin got us off the deck with what our deck crew said was probably only one foot remaining until the tail wheel would have gone over the edge.
I've had lots of emergencies in aircraft, the only time I had the rubber legs of adrenaline was from rolling backwards off the flight deck. Then, we had to look forward to coming back to land with that same flight deck crew. We radioed our OIC and asked to have our deck crew recover us. The ship refused our request. When we landed, the flight deck crew tried installing all the chains on the wheel on my side of the aircraft. I was yelling and pointing directions for them to get it right. We pulled the engines to idle incase we had to quickly turn them off for a dynamic rollover situation. We finally got chains on both wheels and were able to breath again. This story is the closest thing to PTSD I have in my memory.
Chain of Command
Greg Gallagher (OIC) Kevin Coyne (MO) Mike Hollister (AMO) Dave Diamond (OPS) Dean Wojcik (TRNG) Rob Kalin (ADMIN)
Other Memories
The great pumpkin incident. The ship had a jack o lantern contest and used chemlights for candles. One of the losers tossed their entry overboard with the chem light still installed. As our helo returned from patrol they saw what appeared to be a human head in the water and asked to refuel to perform a rescue. The ship denied the response and said they would launch the motor whaleboat because it would be "quicker". A half hour later, the boat still wasn't in the water and half the department heads had been called to the bridge to have their heads ripped off. In the meantime, all of our detachment pilots were furious that there was someone in the water. After about an hour, the ship finally got to the survivor only to find it was a jack o lantern. We never did find out who tossed it overboard.
There was no AC to the Air Det staterooms. When we pulled into Puerto Rico, we bought a bunch of canned drinks and a big cooler. Every night we would make a raid on the wardroom ice machine and have cold drinks the rest of the day. Every morning the ship's officers would complain the ice machine was broken and we would say they really out to get it fixed.
Best Moment
Running into Mike Mercer my former Department Head from COMINEWARCOM. He was on the staff running a mine neutralization exercise from the O'Bannon.
Being diverted to the Kauffman for fuel. We were given a green deck to land with no flight deck crew. We confirmed we were cleared to land and landed unassisted. Then the flight deck crew came out of the hangar with no chocks or chains. The ship started to turn, so we took back off. On our next landing we finally got chocks and chains.
After we were fueled, the flight deck crew pulled the chocks and chains and went back in the hangar. I looked at Chris and he looked at me and said where's the LSE? I said, I guess since we didn't need one to land, we don't need one to launch. We lifted and slid over the deck before the LSE came back out. We just waved at him and kept going.
Meeting the new Captain Stretch Phillips in the head when we were both getting ready to take showers. He turned on the faucet and the water just dribbled out. He pulled off the faucet head and found the CHENG had installed a rubber stop with a small hole. He removed it and started his shower. I found the same device on my shower and removed it. The CHENG heard the showers and yelled into the head, "Who's taking a HOLLYWOOD?!!". Stretch looked over the top of the shower installation and said, I am, do you have a problem with that? The CHENG left with his tail between his legs and we enjoyed showers with water pressure.
Worst Moment
Being grounded for a head cold and missing out on flight time. When I recovered, I pulled a longer than expected flight with Chris Hyder.
Watching the EOD diver washing the puke out of his fin. Poor guy had been drinking the night before and didn't realize Chris was going to challenge me by having me fly and land hydraulics off that day. That was a hot, squirrelly ride!
Best Moment
After being forced to drop a SUS on what my OIC called a submarine periscope wake, I saw a whale broach the surface.
I had previously had a disagreement with him about a Spruance Class ship we saw at a distance he refused to admit was a Spruance.
I just said, "Man, Greenpeace is going to be PISSED!"
The good thing is the SUS did not hit the whale.
Worst Moment
Doing a full exercise worth of Purple Messages in one day with Bill Gross. And figuring out how to state the OIC made me drop a SUS on a whale.
Pushing the helo in the hangar with snow blowing down on us. I looked over at my friend Bill and said, "You know (SH-) 60 guys don't get to have this kind of fun!"
Chain of Command
Bill Davenport (OIC) Jud Vonkolnitz (MO) Dave Diamond (OPS) Bill Gross (TRNG/ADMIN)
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Description
For the first Gulf War (Operation Desert Storm)
Best Moment
Flying around the Statue of Liberty on the cross country to Newport to meet the ship. The next day directing the ship to a 1/2 mile hole in the fog to land. We didn't see clear skies for the next 3 days.
Hearing my AW Scott Masceill say Madman, Madman, Madman and getting my first torp drop on October 30th, 1990, three years to the day of my first solo in the T-34C.
Worst Moment
Getting put in hack after our AWs mooned the ship as Karl and I flew by the bridge. All was forgiven when the CO mooned Pete Peterson as he did the Fly Off.
Chain of Command
Pete Peterson (OINC) Karl Rothermel (MO) I was the Ops Officer and the other two pilots were Mike Maquera and Mike Hollister
Other Memories
Raiding VC-8 for parts and barely making it back to the ship before it left Puerto Rico. The CO said if it had been Dave Zatt, he would have left him.
This was the first in a streak of missed birthdays at sea.
Worst Moment
The "Brief Stop For Fuel" in Puerto Rico. There was an incident in St Thomas prior to the BSF in Puerto Rico. The incident ended with the CO being relieved for cause. We had a maintenance message that had to be approved by the CO each night with the projected ship schedule so the logistics people knew where to send our parts. Everynight it was like we were undermining the CO's command by stating we did not know when the ship was leaving port. It got to the point we would play cards and whoever lost had to run the message. A few days later we left port with a new CO only after having the ships officers and the air det officers chewed out by the DESRON Commodore for not backing the previous CO. I felt bad for the new CO, he had to take a new ship through the Panama Canal with a crew he wasn't sure he could trust.
Chain of Command
Mike Long (OIC) Kurt Lickiss (MO) Dave Diamond (OPS) Mike Hollister (ADMIN) Mike Maquera (TRNG)
Other Memories
One of the ship's directional gyros failed while we were in the Pacific. While heading out to investigate a surface contact (which was a ship that had refueled us earlier) the ship started giving us strange vectors. We had the contact on radar and proceeded on our own. When we got ready to return, the Beary was out of radar range and our TACAN needle was pointing in a direction that was mathematics impossible to be correct. We checked our other navigation equipment and everything agreed with our standby compass and the standby compass appeared to match the movement of the sun. We asked for vectors and the vectors they provided made no sense. We headed on an opposite course to what we took to investigate the surface contact and our ship kept providing erroneous vectors. For about 10 to 15 minutes we had no radar contact and erroneous vectors. We called the OIC and let him know what was happening and thought the ship had something wrong. We finally had the ship do a long count on the radio and our ADF needle pointed where we thought the ship should be. The ship crew continued to insist we follow their vectors. We finally picked them up on radar and it aligned with our course and the ADF bearing. We reported radar contact and they still insisted we follow what we now knew for certain were bad vectors. Finally, I could stand it no longer and said, you're wrong, we have you on radar and will see you in about 30 minutes. When we reported the ship in sight and requested a green deck for landing, they requested that we fly over the ship and provide their heading. It turns out the have a directional gyro that tells the TACAN transmitter what is North. It had failed, and that is why everything was out of whack. Thinking about this later, we knew if we blindly followed the vectors, we would have run out of fuel in a desolate area of the Pacific and the ship would not have been able to tell search crews where to find us after we ditched.
Criteria The Joint Meritorious Unit Award is presented in the name of the Secretary of Defense to Joint Activities of the Department of Defense for meritorious achievement or service, superior to that which is... The Joint Meritorious Unit Award is presented in the name of the Secretary of Defense to Joint Activities of the Department of Defense for meritorious achievement or service, superior to that which is normally expected, under one of the following conditions: During action in combat with an armed enemy of the United States, For a declared national emergency or Under extraordinary circumstances that involve the national interest. MoreHide
Criteria The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement o... The Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Commandant (or designated subordinate awarding authorities) to any unit of the Coast Guard for valorous or meritorious achievement or service in support of Coast Guard operations not involving combat. The performance of duty must render the unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service but not of such a nature to merit award of the Coast Guard Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Best Friends
Michael Craig, John Scott, Pat Gibbons, and Jeff Perkins
Best Moment
Finishing with my original class after making up all of the events I originally failed. One of the staff was friends with the pilot that flew me in the F-4 in Beaufort. He said he had never seen anyone comeback from so many events and finish with their original class.
Worst Moment
Catching the flu two weeks prior to my start date. It took a while to build back my endurance and I had to redo three events to stay with my class. I failed the Obstacle Course, the Cross Country Course, and the Mile Swim on the first attempt. I made them all up in the last week with strong support of my future Whiting Field room mate Michael Craig.
Other Memories
Being frustrated I had to do my taxes the week before land survival and owed Mississippi $4.96. I became a Florida resident after Land Survival.
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous ... The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous or meritorious achievement which renders that unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar service, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Navy Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Best Friends
Mack Sigman, my running mate. He was a Tulane grad and happy to have a Green Wave under his guidance. He was the assistant Navigator but had previously been Engineering R division. He took me from shaft alley to vulture's row and every space in between. He was also on the Damage Control Training Team and handed me the red DCTT jumpsuit that would make me famous, or infamous depending on who you asked.
Best Moment
Being the infamous Midshipman Redsuit after standing my ground with the Ops Officer over Damage Control drills for REFTRA
Worst Moment
Hungover puking in the shower the morning after debarking. Many squadron COs and and senior officers wanted to buy drinks for the infamous Midshipman Red Suit. I was hungover and didn't realize it, but had also contracted Hepatitis. That was the worst hangover EVER.
Best Moment
When the ship's store reopened and I finally could by a USS Yosemite ball cap and bury the blue banded dixie cup as deep in my seabag as I could.
Worst Moment
When you report aboard a ship as a 3rd class Midshipman, the first thing you want to do is buy a ship's ballcap. Otherwise you have to wear your dixie cup with the blue band around the edge. Unfortunately the ship's store was closed until my third day onboard. After the first couple of days explaining why your dixie cup has a blue band, you get kind of tired of it. I finally decided to use a new response. The last time someone chased me down the passageway and tapped me on the back to ask about my dixie cup, I turned my head and in an authoritative manner said "It's a new uniform for Chiefs, now get your ass back to work!" It worked! (Lucky for me, a Chief wasn't there to hear it)
Other Memories
The ship had made a port visit in Jamaica before I reported aboard. I was assigned to deck division that was being run by BM3 White. He was the LPO since every Petty Officer above him popped positive, I saw a lot of crows lined through with the word Void that month.
Angus Rupert, Kim Brown
Attending the NHA Symposium in Jacksonville in support of the TSAS program with CAPT Angus Rupert. I also got to meet up with a few HSL-34 squadron mates including Kevin Coyne who was with me for that scary FCF on the Ponce
Getting ill from a wavy pattern on I-10 on the drive back to Pensacola
CAPT Angus Rupert
The photo taken of me with Angus was the last time I wore a uniform for this country. I didn't think it would go by so quickly.