Adapt and Overcome: A Sailor's Path To Rising Above His Challenges

USS NIMITZ, At Sea (NNS) -- Adapt and overcome: it's a phrase those in the military hear so often it's almost a cliche. It becomes pertinent when one can relate to a real world example, and Machinist's Mate 2nd Class Thomas Soper's experience is a textbook case.

"I first joined the Navy for a change of pace - something different," said Soper. "The Navy seemed like an adventure."

Soper, a soft-spoken 21-year-old from Loma, Colo., comes from a mechanical background, making him well suited for his rate.

"I've always been a mechanic. I was always working on race cars or farm equipment," said Soper. "I took the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) and got a few options. I saw machinist's mate and picked that."

Soper started out working on a variety of systems throughout the ship - hot water heaters, potable water, laundry, refrigeration and garbage grinders to name a few.

"I worked on pretty much everything for the Navy," said Soper. "After that, we ended up working on fan coil units and ventilation for the radars on the island, too."

Then, as a petty officer 3rd class during his first underway, Soper did not follow proper procedure and found himself facing what every Sailor dreads: non-judicial punishment.

"I got in trouble for gun decking when I was on watch," he said. "I ended up going to Captain's Mast over it. I got 30 days restriction, 30 days of extra duty and half month's pay for two months with one month suspended."

Soper's chief, Chief Machinist's Mate Ho Nguyen, said Soper was spared from a harsher sentence because of the quality work he had done.

"When he went to Captain's Mast, the captain didn't take his crows," said Nguyen. "He's a good worker, so we worked to get him to keep his crows so he could make 2nd class.

It was an eye-opening experience for Soper.

"I was surprised. I was scared," said Soper. "I was planning on making some good times out of the Navy and I thought all of that would be done with. I thought I wouldn't advance."

At a crossroads, Soper turned his mistake into a learning experience, however, and looked to his chain of command for support.

"It helped me build leadership," said Soper. "My chain of command counseled me and said, 'This happened. Now you have the chance to step up and keep other people from making the same mistake you have.'"

After his punishment ended, Soper took the 2nd class exam that September and advanced. A few months later, Soper qualified as a work center supervisor and uses his experiences to mentor those working under him.

"When I picked up 2nd class, I got a whole new vision on life in the Navy," said Soper. "When you mentor the people that work with you, you get to see them get better. I try to help them step their game up and bring the best out of them. Your people help you out. When one person looks good, everyone looks good. The plan now is to stay in for 20 years and make a career of it."

Although it's a demanding job, Soper stays enthusiastic.

"It's a lot of work, but it's very rewarding," said Soper. "Providing for my family keeps me motivated. Family has always been a huge motivator for me."

Soper's work ethic hasn't escaped his chief's notice, either.

"He has a good deal of responsibility around his work center," said Nguyen. "He always does good work and he has a good knowledge of his area."

When pressed for advice, Soper incorporates both his past experience and present reality.

"No matter what happens to you, stay strong and keep your head forward," said Soper. "Just because you get in trouble doesn't mean it's the end. If you do the best you can do, you will be rewarded."

For more news from USS Nimitz (CVN 68), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn68/.