My History – The Navy (Part 2)

The Navy in the late 60’s and early 70’s was a great place for drinking.  The were always parties.  On base the booze was cheap.  Very few did not drink and those few were usually ridiculed and teased.  I got my first motorcycle in 1970 and totaled it 4 months later.  I walked away from the accident with just scrapes and bruises.  I advanced in rank, but very slowly.  After 3 years I was still a Seaman First Class (E-3).  During my annual review one year the Operations Officer warned me that my drinking was the reason.  I still didn’t stop but did slow down and started tending to my duties.  Within 3 more years I made it to Petty Officer First Class (E-6).  My performance was rewarded with several Sailor of the Month awards and even made the cover of Navy Times.  I was then transferred to shore duty as an instructor.  I passed the exam for Chief Petty Officer (E-7).  My friends threw me a party at a downtown Hotel and I lost the promotion by getting my first DUI (Driving Under the Influence) on my way home.  I was also sent back to sea duty.  At the time I felt that the Navy was being totally unfair and left the service.