Here is a collection of stories, events, and incidents that Master Chief Petty Officer was present or received firsthand knowledge of those present at the time they occurred. The collection of stores reflects the American society at the time these sailors served on active duty in the United States Navy. Times and attitudes have changed over the years, and it may be easy to judge them by today’s standards, but those same standards were not at the time. I am aware that today, commanding officers of United States ships do not have the same judgmental options and authority as they did in the past. Therefore, many of the incidents if occurred today would result in court-martials and discharges from the service.
Sailors walk in the footsteps of the sailors before them. The navy is tradition; therefore, sailors today think in some ways that they have to do as the sailors before them. To wearing the white hat on the back of the heads, create wings on the brim of covers, and to be a little mischief on liberty to many, this is what they think is what a sailors does work hard at sea, see the world, pull into a liberty port, see the sites, enjoy meeting the people, drink and have fun.
Keep in mind as you read these stores, these are sailors that not only served their country, also made history. The sailors that are in the navy today are making history, one day at a time that will be in history books of the future.
The highest form of respect that you can give any individuals that goes to sea is to call them a sailor or a shipmate.
I, Master Chief Petty Officer Howard, wish all my follow sailors and shipmates’ fair winds and smooth seas.
