When I think of a shipmate,
I think of that Sailor who works side by side with you every day. It's that Sailor who shares the rough times,
as well as the good times. It's that Sailor who goes to general quarters and battle stations with you when tragedy
strikes; and that same Sailor that you will entrust with your life. True shipmates are those Sailors with whom
you make lifetime friendships that can never be compared to anything. There is no other job comparable to the U.S
Sailor. We have put our lives in harm's way for what we believe in. We have sacrificed time away from our families
and loved ones when the rest of the world is working from 9 to 5 and going home to their loved ones. That individual
word "shipmate" means so much to me. So next time you hear a Sailor call someone shipmate, know it is
a compliment. He is saying," We are friends." I take the word shipmate very seriously. I take it with
pride and honor along with all Sailors before us who served their country with honor, courage, and commitment.
They have passed on this tradition with meaning and sacrifice.
