<p>As usual, right on, Memphis. And sadly so. And my read is that the disdain for SWOdom has little or nothing to do with “being at sea.” As noted, more often, it’s NOT being at sea. Too much down time absent freedom to explore alternative activities and diversions beyond the local McDonalds or whatever. And it really leaves a bad taste so unnecessarily and unmerited in the bigger picture.</p>
<p>A number of years back, the contention was offered that this issue was a function of the SWOs not engendering a sense of “community” like flyers, and submariners and SEALS and Marines and … virtually all other professional groups of USN/USMC. There was no pin. Well now those things, which are important but perhaps not primary have been addressed. Too many are too superficial it seems. Thankfully, while many are turned off by their Midshipman exposures, many are not, and many who find themselves on a ship, learn the love of the sea in due time. Unfortunately, it seems many work like mad to make sure they serve no “due time.” At least on ships. Sad and unfortunate.</p>