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.




