Navy Professional Reading Program Strengthens Sailors
Story Number: NNS070121-01
Release Date: 1/21/2007 12:29:00 PM (Captain's Call Kit - Important Navy information prepared in an easy to distribute format.)
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Seth Scarlett, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) Public Affairs
USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, At Sea (NNS) -- English politician and writer Joseph Addison once said, “Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.”
Sailors on board the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) and throughout the Navy can give their minds a proper workout by participating in the Navy Professional Reading Program.
The Navy Professional Reading Program, introduced in October by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Mullen, was created to encourage independent reading which contributes to education, development, personal and professional growth, and the stimulation of critical thinking. The books are selected by the Naval War College.
“These books are full of good morals for Sailors,” said Religious Program Specialist Seaman Jayson Billstone, Ike Religious Ministries Department. “Honesty, integrity, good leadership; they’re all here.”
Sailors will find books in five different categories, ranging from the junior enlisted collection to the senior leader's collection.
“The first book I’m going to read is ‘The Caine Mutiny’ by Herman Wouk,” said Information Systems Technician 2nd Class (SW/AW) Serrita Harris, who serves on the staff of Commander, Carrier Strike Group Eight. “It’s something that readers on the ship can really appreciate.”
“I read ‘Not a Good Day to Die’ by Sean Naylor,” said Chief Quartermaster (SW/AW) Michael May, Navigation Department’s leading chief petty officer. “It gives you more information on the subject matter than what you’ll find on TV.”
The program is also designed to deepen Sailors’ appreciation of who they are and what they’re part of, with a broader understanding of Naval heritage. Sailors also develop better leadership, performance and decision-making skills through improved intellectual habits.
“I’ve read a lot of these books, and there’s just so many great [selections to read],” said Ike Chaplain Lt. Cmdr. Shaun Brown. “It’s really an outstanding program.”
For more information about the Navy Professional Reading Program, visit www.navyreading.navy.mil.
For related news, visit the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) Navy NewsStand page at www.news.navy.mil/local/cvn69/.
