No more uniforms

I have a DD214. For those not familiar with the military, that means I have my discharge papers. Today was my last day in uniform. While I am still technically on active duty until June 1st, I am on terminal leave and my naval career is over. No more morning musters. No more duty days. No more PRTs. No more uniforms.

My first day in uniform, June 30, 1995

I still remember the first time I really thought about joining the military. I was on a camp out with my Boy Scout Troop at Camp Sequoya in 1992. One of the leaders on the camp out was telling stories about his time in the Navy and how Scouting prepared him for military service. While I didn’t really tell everyone, that was when I first knew I would go into the military. It just seemed right.

I have been to 15 countries on 6 continents. I have surfaced a submarine through the ice at the North Pole. I have been to the crossing of the Equator and Prime Meridian. I have spent time at sea on 12 different submarines. My career path was different from some of my peers. About half way through my time, I shifted to a staff officer role. While that impacted my upward mobility for promotions, it gave me opportunities with my family that we wouldn’t have otherwise had. We spent 13 years in the Groton, CT area. We have a herd of horses. I have been working as a part-time farrier for 7 years.

My last day in uniform, February 21, 2019

I am excited to start the next phase of my life. In a few months, Anna and I will celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. Next week, I will start at Sonalysts, Inc in Waterford, CT. Next fall, we will have 2 kids in high school. Life moves on and things change. I’m happy to have served in uniform. I’m proud to be a veteran.

10 thoughts on “No more uniforms”

  1. What a journey it has been for you and for your family! Congratulations to you and also congratulations to Anna for completing her “Navy Career!” Thank you for your service!

  2. Congratulations on your accomplishments over the years. And here’s to many more adventures in the future. Thank you for your service.

  3. Wow! What some amazing experiences! Congratulations on the close of one chapter and the start of another. Thank you for all your dedicated time and service!

  4. Congratulations Rob!! Thank you for you career (and what a career it has been) of service in the Navy! Doris

  5. A fantastic story! I met you at that very Boy Scout camp you mentioned in 1992. So great to see someone fulfill their very obvious potential (even back then I could see that spark in you) and enjoy success in the way that you and your family have. Congratulations and best wishes for continued happiness and success as you enter the next phase of your life.

  6. Rob you are an amazing person/husband/father! It was a pleasure to have had you as my farrier. I always loved talking to you. Congratulations on all your accomplishments! Enjoy the next chapter in your life!!!

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