Introduction

The last significant defensive war the US engaged in was in 1945, ending the Second World War. When I turned of draft age, the conflict at hand was less about global defense and more about suppressing a civil war that was essentially handed over to us from the French, who were in decline.

The Beginning of My Military Interests

Despite the calls for enlistment, my path took a different direction. Having grown up with a strong military background, I had the opportunity to work for a government agency. This role provided me with state-of-the-art training, and I was fortunate to be mentored by the British SAS and Australia's Special Air Service Regiment (SASR). Following a three-year training period, I worked independently, receiving orders to complete objectives, whether for intelligence gathering or target elimination. My character, however, did not easily fit within the teamwork environment, but I recognized that growing old isn't something to look forward to.

Joining the Navy

I did not refuse military service. My family, particularly those who served in WWII, surrounded me with a positive attitude towards the military. My four uncles, who saw combat in various theaters, and my sister, influenced my decision. By the time I graduated in 1965, the draft was at its peak. It was a given among my peers to join, whether through enlistment or the draft, providing a sense of purpose and some level of control over our service.

With the intent to serve for four years and then leave, I joined the Navy. Most of my class followed a similar path, either immediately after graduation or a couple of years later. Joining the military gave us a certain degree of autonomy—still limited, but more than those drafted straight out of high school. By the end of the first year, I discovered a profound appreciation for the structure and camaraderie that military life offers, leading me to extend my service for a remarkable 30 years.

Reflections on Military Service

While I never hesitated to fulfill my military service, it's fascinating to see how perspective changes over time. Many of my peers who initially viewed military service as a temporary obligation later expressed regret. A few years of life experience can greatly impact one’s views on commitment and career choice. Not everyone is destined for a military career, and the decision to join is a personal one, rooted in individual temperament and life circumstances.

I realize that those initial impulses and desires, like wanting to become "Captain Alapaki" like my father, were shaped by growing up in a military family. The experience I gained through my 30 years in the Navy has been invaluable, and while I never regret the decision, there are those who now believe they should have made it a full career.