I'm Home!

Finally made it back home! Thanks for all of your prayers.

Commissioning Anniversary

18 years (and 30 pounds) ago today, I was commissioned in the Navy. It doesn't seem like it could possibly have been that long ago.

Cruise Book Photo

While I was in admin, I got a copy of my cruise book photo. I have no neck!

Award Photo

I was able to get a copy of the picture from admin of my award presentation. The citation reads:

For meritorious service while serving as Operations Officer for Mobile Inshore Undersea Warfare Unit 105 from 01 September 2006 to 15 May 2007. Displaying outstanding leadership and superb resourcefulness, LCDR Stein was instrumental in the successful accomplishment of MIUWU 105's "Outstanding" grade of 97.35 percent during the pre-deployment Final Evaluation Problem. He expertly managed the operations of 89 unit personnel and 12 armed patrol craft performing seaward security anti-terrorism/force protection in the Kuwaiti/Iraqi Theater of Operations, which allowed the logistical flow of over 10 million tons of ammunition, military equipment and supplies headed to Iraq to support U.S. and coalition forces. By his unswerving determination, wise judgment, and complete dedication to duty, LCDR Stein reflected credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Me on Watch

Here I am on watch, trying to finish Mahan's Influence of Seapower on History for my Joint Professional Military Education course.

Big Surprise

We had a Commodore's call today for Navy Coastal Warfare Squadron 34, and then held quarters for our unit (Mobile Inshore Undersea Warfare Unit 105). After we put out our information, the CO called us to attention for awards presentations. After the awards were done, he called me up and presented me with a Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal signed by the Commodore. He told me that it was for being thrown into the fire and into the most dynamic position in the unit, and not only surviving, but doing well. Here I was hoping to make it home without being dropped a rank! (Just kidding about that.) I'll see if I can get a picture to post.