Blues Over Boston

Comment

Comment by Patrick J. Doherty on May 31, 2015 at 9:49am

Will do, Tom.....Be well!  ~ Pat

Comment by Navy Dads Co-Admin Tom on May 30, 2015 at 11:06am

   I love a story with a happy ending!!!! I know all of the hurdles that Michael had to clear and what a hard time it was for you folks...I'm thrilled to hear that all is moving forward again for him! The Quota system can make it difficult to advance sometimes Caity needed a couple of cycles to make 2nd Class....so tell him to keep at it. He will carry points into the next cycle that will aid him as he moves forward up the ranks! I encourage him to apply for a Commission as he continues his journey....always better to be "at the top of the anthill" as they say....LOL! I'm also glad to hear that you will be sticking around to assist other parents new to the fold. It has brought me a great deal of satisfaction over the last 4 years. On behalf of my Wife and I, please thank Michael for his service and wish him success in his endeavors!!!

Comment by Patrick J. Doherty on May 29, 2015 at 9:51pm

Hi Tom:  I am a Fields Corner, Dorchester, MA fellow who spent a brief period of time on the South Shore, back in the day.  The Angels were frequently overhead.   Many, many trips in and out of Boston since moving to NH in 1969.....each time I hit the city's view........."I am home."    

Anyway, Michael did not make E-4; forgive me for messing up the terminology, but, I am told the available positions were less than in recent promotionals.   I reminded him to apply himself as he works toward earning his promotions.   I will share, though, that his surrounding personnel (not sure how else to describe it) have asked him to consider applying for a Commission.  He has a degree with a minor.    I suspect it is a good thing that his supervisors/colleagues have asked him to "get the paperwork."   It will be in God's hands as to where Michael Christopher ends up.  Frankly, I am very, very pleased for him and proud of him for his success, to date.  I have to constantly remind myself to back off and let him "thrive."   He has driven home once from VA and seemed to manage the trip well and within USN standards.  Reportedly, there have been no incidents in VA with local and military law enforcement.   Being a retired cop, he is used to me being on him to mind his 'P's' and 'Q's'.

He seems to be adjusting well to being a HT and seems to be surrounded with good, quality personnel.  He is learning....he is paying attention.  Dad cannot resist delivering the proverbial 'fanny contact' in support of the USN.......I wish nothing but success for my son......the Navy has been VERY VERY VERY good for my son.  Given his assignment to the USS Lincoln and its overhaul/repair/drydock time, I am encouraging him to explore opportunities associated with a re-enlistment.  Yes, I know, Dad mode, and Michael has only been active duty since July 22, 2014.  I may have jumped the gun; planting the seed in the soil as they say.  

Thank you for asking, Tom.   Michael's journey has been a unique one (as you well know).....I suspect I will always be part of Navy Dads because of caring people such as you and Jim and other administrators and other members as Michael and his family negotiated the challenges and followed the rules.    We are truly blessed; we are very thankful.

Truly.....my very best wishes to your daughter and your family as you guys move forward.....be well, sir.   ~ Pat Doherty

Comment by Navy Dads Co-Admin Tom on May 29, 2015 at 4:08pm

By the way...How about an update on Michael for us????

Comment by Navy Dads Co-Admin Tom on May 29, 2015 at 4:07pm

Thank You Patrick...I'll pass that along.....

Comment by Patrick J. Doherty on May 28, 2015 at 9:47pm

Awesome, Tom!!  Recognize the top of that building anywhere!!  I missed that the Blues were here.....been one of those months.....  Reminds me of when the Angels regularly visited Boston in the 60's......Read the news regarding your daughter separating - Many thanks to her, and your family, for her service.  Very best wishes.  ~ Pat