herman powell:  

While in high school I participated in all music classes except music appreciation, I guess because I already appreciated music. I earned my block letter on the Junior Varsity Team, and under Coach Pete Denevi, we had an undefeated un-scored on season. 'Go Cats! In March of 1961, before leaving high school I joined the Naval Reserve and when I left high school I served my country until April 1971 on active duty. It would be impossible to write of all that I did and the places I've been while serving aboard two Aircraft Carriers and a Destroyer Tender, not to mention my shore duty. My most interesting duty I suppose was in Kodiak, Alaska where I was the Crash Boat Cox'n on a 40' AVR. For those not familiar with Navy jargon a Cox'n is the man responsible for the safety of his boat and crew, passengers, and so on, a responsibility not to be taken lightly because a Military Court Marshal is most unforgiving if you are found guilty of negligence,etc. But that's as it should be. We were tasked with Search and Rescue Missions in conjunction with the U.S. Coast Guard and keeping clear our Sea Defence area from Russian Fishing Trawlers who had more radar gear and listening devices than most Destroyer's. I have operated my boat in seas that had waves as high as my boa...Expand for more