I Was At Naval Station Norfolk Today

MH-60S Knighthawk
MH-53E Seadragon My brother-in-law retired from the Navy, after 30 years of service to our Nation, as a Master Chief. It was a big deal. I was fine until they started reading "The Watch". That one gets me every time.

Thank you, Master Chief for the privilege of attending your Retirement Service. Thank you for your service to our Nation.

The Watch For thirty years This sailor has stood the watch While some of us were in our bunks at night This sailor stood the watch While some of us were in school learning our trade This shipmate stood the watch Yes..even before some of us were born into this world This shipmate stood the watch In those years when the storm clouds of war were seen brewing on the horizon of history This shipmate stood the watch Many times he would cast an eye ashore and see his family standing there Needing his guidance and help Needing that hand to hold during those hard times But he still stood the watch He stood the watch for thirty years He stood the watch so that we, our families and Our fellow countrymen could sleep soundly in safety, Each and every night Knowing that a sailor stood the watch Today we are here to say 'Shipmate... the watch stands relieved Relieved by those You have trained ,Guided, and Lead Shipmate you stand relieved.. we have the watch..." "Boatswain..Standby to pipe the side...Shipmate's going Ashore.."