Chief Warrant Officer 4 William J. Norton retired from active duty after 30 years of naval service during a ceremony at Fellowship Memorial Hall at U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan in Seoul, June 24.

Norton, the security officer for Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea (CNFK) and Commander, U.S. Navy Region Korea (CNRK), was joined by family, friends, and shipmates as he began his transition to civilian life.

"Bill, you will be missed," said Rear Adm. Bill Byrne, commander of CNFK and CNRK. "Your contributions to this command, this region, and more importantly the Navy will live on long after you take off the uniform."

During his remarks as a guest of honor, Byrne spoke about Norton's family history, commenting on the dedication of service to others exhibited by Norton's late father, a World War II veteran, as well as by his brother and sister.

"Service is in the Norton blood," said Byrne, "and I am thankful it is because so many people have benefitted."

Norton, a native of Akron, Ohio, joined the Navy in 1986 and rose to the rank of senior chief petty officer before earning a commission as a chief warrant officer.

The guest speaker, Capt. Fred Boyles, highlighted Norton's work ethic and professionalism.

"It is on behalf of all your fellow Sailors that I can say 'thank you,'" said Boyles. "Thank you for 30 years of being passionate. It is that passion that would not let you do a job halfway or just enough to get by."

When it was his time to speak, Norton grew emotional when he thanked his wife for her continuous love and support.

"I know these 30 years have been rough on you," said Norton to his wife, "but through the extended periods of time we were apart, and all of the phone calls at awkward hours in the morning, you stayed at my side. I wouldn't be half of what I am now without you."

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