Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center (MARMC) Rigger Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Richard D. Vissoh earned his 3rd Mate Unlimited Oceans certification from the Mid-Atlantic Maritime Academy in Norfolk, May 13.

In earning his 3rd Mate certification, Vissoh becomes a member of the deck department, a watchstander and a ship safety officer in addition to being fourth in command.

Vissoh said he dreamed of this moment and knew it would eventually come -- he just didn't know when. During his many deployments, Vissoh often stood watch on the bridge and had discussions with new Navy ensigns and senior officers who attended maritime schools in New York, he said. He frequently spoke about his desire to become an officer in the Navy and the many opportunities that come with the designation. A few of the officers Vissoh spoke to had the 3rd Mate certification in their backgrounds.

"I always had a goal to become an officer in the U.S. Navy and just assumed that you had to be an officer to be able eligible for 3rd Mate," said Vissoh. "Once I came to MARMC, I met a recruiter from MAMA and found out that I could register for the program. I knew opportunities like this one only come around a few times in one's lifetime. I didn't second guess it and I was fully committed to completing the program."

The 3rd Mate Unlimited Oceans certification process is a rigorous program complete with numerous classes ranging from basic entry level courses to Bridge Resource Management and Celestial Navigation. Vissoh completed 23 night courses, with each class lasting 1-4 weeks. After completing the courses, Vissoh's next step was to complete 37 individual assessments, which are very similar to personnel qualification standards.

Once the assessments were complete, they were sent to the U.S. Coast Guard for verification. Once verified, Vissoh received a letter stating he could test for his 3rd Mate certification. Vissoh studied the next 30 days before taking the exams.

"I worked and came home and studied," said Vissoh. "I really didn't have much time for social events or even family time. On weekends, I studied all day. On Sunday, for example, I would go to church in the morning and then go right to the library and study all day."

Vissoh's hard work and dedication paid off as he passed all seven exams. He attained a certification very few have in the Navy.

"The entire staff at Mid-Atlantic Maritime Academy is truly impressed with BM2 Vissoh's accomplishments," said MAMA Lead Instructor Ed Horton. "He passed all seven exams for the 3rd Mate certification. There are several maritime academies located around the U.S. and those students have four years to take their classes, study and prepare for their exams. BM2 Vissoh did everything in one and a half years, at night! This even includes him taking off eight weeks to study for his [petty officer] 1st class exams."

According to Vissoh, being committed and singularly focused are keys to attaining one's goals.

"I advise my fellow Sailors to find a mentor and really try to learn something from him or her," said Vissoh. "Keep your mind focused on exactly what you want to accomplish. Nothing is easy -- only with dedication and willpower will you accomplish your goals. You can do it!"

Vissoh has always enjoyed being on the high seas. By earning this certification, he has not only ensured he will be able to provide for his family for years to come, but also work in a field he loves.

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