Uncle Bert was a true "Old Salt." He ended his career with more of those diagonal "Hash Marks" at the bottom of his sleeve than in this photo. Each one represents another 4 year "hitch". He had about 7 that I know of. And the red, rather than gold color, means that he wasn't a "yes" man. He followed his own heart and mind, doing what he thought was right.
The rank insignia indicates a Hull Technician and Damage Control rating. The arch at the top indicates a full Chief Petty Officer.
I believe later photos showed a double arch at the top, which indicated a Master Chief Petty Officer. If it could be kept afloat, he was the man who could do it.
His ribbons indicate his accomplishments as the veteran of Vietnam era service. And his eyes reflect all that he had seen up until that point in his career. They only got sharper and wiser in his later career in the reserves, as he saw, and learned, even more.
He was a quiet man, but one with deep thoughts and convictions. He kept his own council. And I don't think you can say more about most other men. May he rest well and sail on into his new voyage, with fair winds and a star to guide his way.
1940 - 2023
April 24th, 2023
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