Veterans Month
November 2003
NS Veterans Remember
Randy Hale
Dispatcher
Bluefield, WV
My name is Randy Hale. I am an extra-board dispatcher in Bluefield, WV. I joined the Navy in September 1986 and was honorably discharged in October of 1995.
While serving my nine years I held three different jobs, the last and longest being an Air Traffic Controller. I was stationed in and around the Norfolk/Virginia Beach area for almost all of my career. I was deployed for six months each on the USS Saratoga (aircraft carrier), USS Wasp (LPD or helicopter carrier) and the USS Guam (helo carrier). I was a part of both "Desert Shield/Storm" and "Operation Restore Hope" (Somalia).
I am proud of many accomplishments, both personal and as a unit, that we had. But by far the one that sticks out most in my mind was when we took part in the 50th commemoration of D-Day. I saw many things during the three days we were in the area of the landings. There were old ships and aircraft. Displays in the towns. And people from different countries wanting to talk to all of us in uniform. Remembering most of all those who fought and died in countries far away, for our freedom. It still seems very clear to me today and there has never been a Veterans Day that passes without me remembering.
During these times I urge everyone to take the time to remember those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country and all that it stands for!