Final post of my #navyweek experience. I wish I could do more of this. I know there is a recruiting element, but there’s more to it. It’s about getting away from the coasts and letting folks see who we are. It’s about connecting as Americans. It’s about getting to know the people we serve.

Presenting Tailhook Association’s “Hook 2025.” This annual convention brings together thousands of US Navy pilots, naval flight officers, and supporters to network and share lessons learned. This year’s theme: Dominate Tomorrow.

Captain Demo is back on duty, as I mentioned before. He saw snow for the first time — didn’t like it. Every day he’s making the rounds to check on Sailors, just like we expect ALL LEADERS TO DO. This is the way.

I find restocking to be oddly satisfying…

Demo is back on board after his training. I included a painting he apparently did — looks like a depiction of his brain waves on deployment… or mine?

Insta: @chowdah_hill

Giant warship mysteriously appears on the Elizabeth River…

A 2024 video of the Mighty IKE experience in 2024, produced by junior IKE Sailors.