I served with Nick at two facilities, the most memorable at Argentia in the early 1970s.
Nick is one of those Navy Chiefs whose impact on young sailors trancends simple description. I say "is one.." because, though he has passed to a new watch section, his legend lives on in the minds of those who served with him when we stood the Cold War watches that changed us all forever.
I recall him, VanAlstine and I were standing aroung the long range working plot discussing some grams being used to train and qualify sailors to stand the watch.
He looked at Van and said "one day we'll look back on these times and know just what a big difference we made."
You were so right Nick. And you were one of those who will live forever in the hearts and minds of those who worked with you.
This is very sad news. Many throughout our community have fond memories of Nick. And many visitors to this site have first-hand experience with our passing legends. I’ll sum up my feelings this way. Throughout a long 20+ year career in Ocean Surveillance, an individual has a handful of opportunities to “stand up and be counted”. These brief, passing moments are defining, and usually impactful on the community. During our careers, I was able to see, up close, the difference Nick made.
And while on the subject, I want to say that the blessing I had in my career was being part of a community that had a “star-studded” lineup. Too many have already passed on. But for those of you that remain, never lose sight of how special you have been - to undersea surveillance, and to each other. Jack, Rick, Jim, Irv, John, and many others - always cherish the watches we stood, the friends we gained, and the difference we made.
Sad news, indeed. I was stationed with Nick in the early 70’s at Argentia and he was one of those who could dominate a room simply by being there. He had a hard nosed reputation but I also saw a softer side of him several times. He was a good man. One of my favorite memories is when Nick was an umpire for our softball game. On a close play he inadvertently hand signaled safe but yelled out. Several guys started yelling about it and Nick gave a look that immediately silenced the players. Amidst the silence he corrected himself with a smile and play went on. A glare then a smile from him took care of the issue quickly :)
Respect is earned and he was rendered much. RIP Master Chief, your country and shipmates are better off by having known you.
