Q- How was your recent trip to the Pacific Northwest?
A- Well, the trip to the Pacific Northwest was a wonderful trip and, oh by the way, four of the five days that we were gone the weather was beautiful! It didn't rain until the day we left. Sorry that it rained, but I'm glad if it had to rain it was on the day that we left. But I had a great time in the Pacific Northwest. Our Sailors are doing magnificent things out there. I couldn't have asked for a better trip and the feedback was wonderful. And I'm looking forward to getting that information to the Chief of Naval Operations very soon.
Q- What messages did you have for the Sailors in that area?
A- Well, we talked a lot about the things that are on their minds right now- deployment length, deployment predictability, sequestration, uniforms, you know, those sorts of things. But mostly what I was focused on myself was Zeroing in on Excellence - the development of leaders, good order and discipline, and controlling what we own. We talked quite a bit about that and what that means to us, and how if we all work together on these three areas of zeroing in on excellence, that we can certainly make a difference during the time in which we all serve.
Q- Can you give any concrete examples of Sailors you met who exemplify Zeroing in on Excellence?
A- Well, thanks for that question, because it's an easy one. Sure, there are Sailors and leaders alike doing great work up there - Zeroing in on Excellence - controlling what they own, focusing on good order and discipline, and also developing leaders. I was so proud to have the opportunity to interact with them during the week-long visit that we had in the Pacific Northwest. I would like to highlight specifically, when I was at Naval Station Bangor, we had the opportunity to interact with and spend time with the religious ministry team. And Chaplain Biadog is doing some tremendous work there partnering with our other volunteer service organizations to reach out and connect with our Sailors and their families. So, my hat's off to them. I'm proud of them. I appreciate what they're doing, and likewise I got a chance to spend time with the religious ministry teams at Whidbey Island and also at Everett, and they are also doing some great work. So, keep up the good work. B.Z. team!
Q- Do you have anything else that you would like to add or tell the Sailors?
A- Sure. I know that we think about this a lot. We think that these are some challenging times we are facing. But you know, in my nearly 30 years of naval service, we've always faced challenging times and I have no doubt, no doubt in my mind that we'll take these challenges on as we have for 237 years and we will succeed. No doubt in my mind we will succeed, and we will continue to be the greatest naval force in the world. I want to thank our Sailors, our civilian employees, our families for everything they do every day to make us the greatest Navy in the world. Keep up the good work shipmates, and I'll see you in the fleet!
