The executive officer for Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center (MARMC), Capt. Raymond D. Goyet Jr., bid farewell during a retirement ceremony at the Mariner's Museum, Newport News, Virginia, July 10.

Goyet was honored for his 38-years of naval service which began after he enlisted in August 1977 and attended Recruit Training and Machinist's Mate "A" Schools in Great Lakes, Illinois, and Basic Submarine School in Groton, Connecticut. Goyet served as a company commander at the Recruit Training Command Orlando, Florida. He was initiated as a chief petty officer in 1987 and was commissioned as an engineering
limited duty officer in July 1990.

"Ray, it has been an honor to serve with you," said ceremonial presiding officer, MARMC Commanding Officer Capt. Steven L. Stancy. "It is obvious your dedication to the Navy and your commitment to our Sailors is deeply rooted in who you are. The past three and a half years you have amicably supported MARMC's mission and for the past 38-years you have served the Navy and courageously defended our nation, I sincerely thank you for that."

Goyet's sea service took him on board USS Scranton (SSBN 756), USS Dale (CG 19), USS Inchon (MCS 12), USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67), and USS Tarawa (LHA) as chief engineer. Ashore, he served as officer-in-charge at the Center for Naval Engineering Learning Site Ingleside, Texas, chief engineer for Afloat Training Group Ingleside, and Commanding Officer of Engineering Assessments Pacific, San Diego, California.

Commander, Navy Regional Maintenance Center Rear Adm. William Galinis spoke of Goyet's successful career and acknowledged the Goyet family's distinguished naval service.

"This is a military family; dedicated to a life of service. Goyet's story is a Life of Service, a son of a retired World War II veteran, where integrity, selflessness and courage were the core of his upbringing," said Galinis.

Goyet lost his only son Mark, who volunteered to return to Afghanistan in support of his fellow Marines who did not make it back or returned seriously wounded.

"He was a son, a brother, he was a Marine. He paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country and operation enduring Freedom and Helmand Province, Afghanistan. We are grateful for your son's life," said Galinis.

"Your legacy is strong and enduring. You have been a mentor, a great personal friend to many, and you epitomize the essence of a true shipmate. Your leadership will continue in each and every young Sailor and junior officer you have mentored and developed over the years. And the personal relationships that you've built from your many roles as a Navy leader will continue. These Sailors and officers who are quickly becoming our future leaders of the Navy bare your good name and your trademark, and they will pay your good deeds forward. We wish you all the best; it truly is a life of service. Thank you and God bless," said Galinis.

During the ceremony, Goyet received the Legion of Merit Award, from the President of the United States, honoring Goyet for his meritorious services while at MARMC.

"Never thought I'd be here 38-years ago," said Goyet. "Wanting to further my education, I was interested in the GI Bill. Influenced by my cousin, who taught me how to play the guitar and who was a Sailor, he told stories of the Navy that captured me."

Goyet described how many of his senior leaders challenged, guided, and taught him, which in turn helped him to push and lead his people to excellence. He thanked the many who helped him along his journey, remembered his son, and thanked his family for all of their support.

"It's always about standing up for those who can't stand up on their own; it's always, taking care of your people. Live every moment to the fullest, love and hug your spouse and your children every day, because life's too short, you never know when you may lose that chance to do so," said Goyet.

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