Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class Nolan Sorsby performed an original song for shipmates during a contemporary Christian worship service held on the fo'c'sle of USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) (GHWB), Aug. 6..

"Hello, good morning / I see the marvelous sun / The light that shines is undone / Like a new life that's begun," goes the song, called "Perfect Peace." It reflected both Sorsby's relief at nearing the end of a long deployment, and his gratitude to God for looking after him and his shipmates during their time on the front.

"I was inspired to write this song while on deployment," said Sorsby. "The inspiration came to me slowly. I heard the music first, then I worked out the lyrics. As we reach the end of deployment, I'm kind of at peace with everything, you know. I'm just really happy with how deployment turned out."

Sorsby is a member of GHWB's contemporary worship band, which performs during the contemporary Christian service on Sunday mornings on the fo'c'sle. This was his first time performing an original song with the band.

"Our worship band has an average of about 14 members," said Navy Chaplain Lt. Cdr. Margaret Siemer. "Some folks have come and gone due to operational commitments, but Sorsby has been a regular throughout deployment. I believe he was with us during COMPTUEX (Composite Training Unit Exercise). He's been a solid member, very committed, and a great leader to our Sailors. Even as a [third class petty officer], he leads all ranks. He loves God, and he is a valuable member."

Sorsby, from Grants Pass, Oregon, is attached to the "Ragin' Bulls" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 37. When he is not underway, he regularly writes songs for his church back in Virginia, where he is stationed.

"I play guitar, I've been teaching myself piano, and I can play a little drums and bass, as well," said Sorsby. "Back home on the beach, I record music. I have a passion for music. It's a fun thing."

Siemer added that she had not heard Sorsby's song beforehand, but she had no doubt in his abilities and intentions, and that it was a joy to hear the song during its first live performance. The song moved the congregation.

"Sorsby told me he wanted to sing this song he had written, and I trusted his musical ability and his commitment to God, so I knew the song would be great," said Siemer. "When I first heard it at the service, it was beautiful. It was very worshipful."

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