Sasebo Japan and USS HARPERS FERRY

On 14 and 15 July, I had the chance to visit Sasebo Japan for the first time since being assigned as the Fleet Master Chief. During the trip I was able to PT with many of the CPO’s at Nimitz field and visited the Sailors of USS PATRIOT, the deployed detachment of NMCB 133, the USS HARPERS FERRY, USS DENVER, USS ESSEX, Navy Munitions Command East Asia Division and ACU 5.
While on HARPERS FERRY I had the chance to meet and talk with a Sailor who was working as an FSA (Food Service Attendant) in the scullery. BMSN Farmer is a perfect example of what I talk about all the time with Sailors. What makes a champion prize fighter a champion prize fighter? His ability to get up off the canvass one more time than he’s been knocked down. BMSN Farmer had made some mistakes early on and if she didn’t turn herself around (get back off the canvass), she would have undoubtedly been kicked out of the Navy. The Shipmate I saw was a squared away, happy Sailor who simply decided, through counsel and engagement from her chain of command, to make the best out of every situation and she is being recognized as a top performer. She may make additional future mistakes and have challenges, but her character and heart as well as her respect for our Core Values of Honor, Courage and Commitment will certainly support her as she “gets back off the canvass!” Shipmates, you WILL make mistakes and have challenges, but every one of us will be known by how we face the adversity and whether or not we decide to get back up.
I’m proud of you BMSN Farmer, great job Shipmate.