by Roger Korth
So often we hear those famous words, “Thank you for your service.” How often do we say, “Thank you Navy for the memories.”
Aside from being scared sh—less a few times, they took a kid and returned a man. They sent or took me to places I never would have gone in my entire life. We got to see so many wonderful things that we had seen in movies and didn’t really believe were real.
From looking in an aquarium to being able to swim in one is one of my greatest memories. Now retired and landlocked, I remember back to the days of going to sleep in star-studded skies and tropical seas. Awakening to brilliant sunrises on the horizon. From riding terrifying oceans with massive swells to sailing glass-covered tranquilily serene seas.
Visiting ports of call crowded with people of every race, creed, and color speaking languages we didn’t understand. Experiencing cultures and foods and religions unknown to us, and us melding into their society. Learning to see and understand experiences we never knew existed.
Meeting so many friends and shipmates; some names you can’t remember and some you’ll never forget. Hoisting a beer to celebrate anything and wobbling back, remembering nothing. Never forgetting some things we wish we could and trying to remember something we can’t. But most importantly, thank America and the United States Navy for being a very important part of our lives.
Tales of an Asia Sailor 
Reblogged this on DAVEBOOK.
LikeLike
Great stuff! Brings back many memories when I served in that part of the world.
LikeLike
Going to sea and firing guns on ships, that sailors today will also never have the chance to do. Yes they can go and see them at the pier for all they are is a museum, but they will not feel that salt spray or hear the BOOM of her guns. What a loss not just for them but for the NAVY as well
LikeLike
The Navy!:
Going to sea and firing guns on BATTLE ships, that sailors today will also never have the chance to do. Yes they can go and see them at the pier for all they are is a museum, but they will not feel that salt spray or hear the BOOM of her guns. What a loss not just for them but for the NAVY as well
LikeLike
The phrase which comes to mind is: There but for the grace of God go I. Ah, the life of a US Navy Sailor. While I served in all parts of the world it is Asia where I respect and remember most. Your writing is admirable and appreciated.
LikeLike
Lucky is the man, who at least once in his life, has sailed into a foreign port, half a world away from home…
The wind in your hair…
salt spray in your face…
the feel of a shifting deck under your feet…
an exotic foreign port just over the horizon…
MY GOD! What more can a man ask for…?
LikeLike
I just have a Question…Where is Chief Davis these days? I miss that guy what a seadog he was!
Nelly
LikeLike
I’m still here Nelly. Been experiencing a few health problems.
LikeLike
Happy Thanksgiving to you. And my thanks for your writings that brought back memories of my past life which was only the beginning of my life 🙂. God Bless all veterans 🙏 ❤.
LikeLike
God bless you all who served
LikeLike
So very true. We all began as young kids and learned to grow up very quickly. Most especially here in Asia . My memories are still alive and I shall remain here until I am called to join my Shipmates in Fiddler’s Green.
LikeLike