It takes more than a Uniform...

I'd like to tell you a story about a Sailor who was just doing his job, in his home port, on a quiet evening in Norfolk, Virginia.

Imagine yourself on duty with Security Forces, Naval Station, Norfolk, VA. Responding to a disturbance at Pier 1, MA2 Mark Mayo is shot and killed by an intruder when he inserted his body between the shooter and a member of the ship's crew on the Quarterdeck of USS Mahan (DDG-72).

The shooter was killed by other members of the ship's security force. The Commanding Officer of Mahan described Petty Officer Mayo's actions as "Nothing short of heroic."

As the time has passed since this incident; I continue to think about what makes a person place themselves in harm's way? What makes a person volunteer to do so?

The U. S. draft ended in the early 1970's and the country has had an all volunteer force since that time. No longer are there draftees or disenchanted youths, "sentenced" by well meaning jurists to join the military as punishment for youthful misdeeds.  We raise our hands willingly and take on the responsibility to defend our country.

I have read recently that it has been said that young people join the service because they can not get a good education or because they have no other choice. Well, you can get a good education in the service so, I don't see a problem there. As for choices; there are always alternatives.

If you look up at the picture for today's writing, you see United States Sailors, standing tall in their dress uniform. I must comment now and say that it takes much more than a "spiffy" uniform, a shoe shine and a straight back to make an effective member of the Armed Forces of the United States.

Many who have not been there have no idea of the responsibilities that these young men and women hold. They take their responsibilities very seriously and carry out their duty well and faithfully. They face long hours in poor working conditions for little pay when compared to civilian counterparts.

Worse, all members of the Uniformed Services face life threatening danger each and every day that they serve. Ask Petty Officer Mayo's family if they thought he was safe at Naval Station Norfolk, VA. I'll bet they would tell you "Yes!"

It takes something inside a person to make them understand that they may have to sacrifice themselves for something greater than themselves. It takes something even greater to actually do it! This comes with training but, it has to be there to begin with. In order to be subject to discipline, a person must be willing to subject himself to discipline.  The uniform just identifies the person, it doesn't speak to the fortitude which lies within.

The funny thing is, when people are serving, they don't think of the danger that they live with. It's part of the job and the culture. But, as a parent of two Marines, I can say without shame that the proudest day of my life was when they both graduated from Parris Island. The day I felt most relived was the day they came home, Honorably Discharged. I don't know how my Mother survived my career. She never said a word about the stress my being in the Navy caused. I do know she was proud and relieved to see me retire.

For Master-at-Arms Second Class Mark Mayo, USN, we salute you and all those who serve and protect us. Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Rest well, Shipmate. The watch stands relieved.

As always...