...For Those In Peril On The Sea...
This is a tribute to friends whose lives were tragically cut short.
Chief Warrant Officer 3 Don Anderson was a superb human being and a good friend to many people, both at SIMA Mayport and his Reserve Unit, as well as those whose lives he touched at St. Leo University. His good humor and wonderful outlook on life made him a constant pleasure to be around. Although Don was an officer, he was still a regular guy -- never too good for anyone. I am proud to say that I had the distinct honor of Don piping me over the side at my retirement ceremony in April '97. He is at the far left in the photograph below, saluting with his left hand while holding the Bosun's Pipe with his right, according to Naval Tradition.
You are sorely missed, shipmate.
Interior Communications Electrician Third Donald Haunschild of Philadelphia was also my friend. We were shipmates in USS Doyle (FFG-39) in Mayport, Florida in the early 1990's. Don was one of the happiest guys I've ever had the pleasure to know. He always had a smile for everyone and was quick with a joke or story, especially if it was about his buddy, IC2 Freehand. Don, we miss you terribly.
Senior Chief Gas Turbine Technician Electrical Rafael Perez also passed away recently (if you have a photo, please send it here for posting). Rafe and I spent many hours discussing theories and opinions on various topics, but mainly we talked about religion, which was one of his favorite issues for debate. He was a very spiritual person, always remaining objective and rational. With the passing of Rafael Perez, society loses one of its deep thinkers and humanitarians. Goodbye, my friend. Just one more thing -- were you right?
This page was last updated on 04 July 2011