PSNS & IMF veterans look back on their military service

PSNS & IMF veterans look back on their military service

By Ben Hutto, PSNS & IMF Public Affairs

BREMERTON, Wash. -

With a quarter of the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility's workforce made up of current or former members of the U.S. military, Veterans Day carries significant meaning throughout the PSNS & IMF team. At one time, many of the command's employees raised their right hands and swore an oath to protect the nation and keep its freedoms secure. It's a sacrifice that has been recognized nationally since 1954.

The origins of the holiday can be traced back to the end of World War I, when then-President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation establishing Armistice Day to recognize the peace agreement that ended what was then known as the Great War, and honor the thousands of U.S. veterans who served and sacrificed during the four-year conflict.

In 1954, following World War II and the Korean War, the scope of the holiday broadened. At the urging of veteran's service organizations, the U.S. Congress amended the holiday and replaced the word "Armistice" with "Veterans."

In a letter to the administrator of Veterans' Affairs, then- President Dwight Eisenhower wrote, "I have today signed a proclamation calling upon all of our citizens to observe Thursday, November 11, 1954, as Veterans Day."

In keeping with that tradition, PSNS & IMF celebrates its dedicated veterans during the month of November.

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Seyan Adelakoun, U.S. Army

Information Technology Analyst Code 109, Information Technology and Cyber Security Office

"[Military service] gave me a foot in the door because it provided me opportunities when I was seeking to expand my opportunities. I think military service gives a lot of people that chance. What I do is necessary no matter where we go in the world. Since leaving the service, my job here has allowed me to branch out more."

Kevin Ballowe, U.S. Navy

Inside Machinist Shop 31, Inside Machinist

"I was mobilized by the Navy Reserves to serve PSNS & IMF during Covid. After my completion of that mission, I returned from Texas to make the Pacific Northwest my home. I'm a third-generation craftsman, and it's my honor to serve PSNS & IMF with machine tool services."

Adrian Falcon, U.S. Army

Work Lead Shop 11, Shipfitters

"I loved serving with my fellow brothers and sisters in arms; knowing we all had the same goal - to come home. It was important because you can experience challenges in life that you never knew you could overcome, but yet, when challenged, you overcome it and feel that sense of heightened pride."

Hans Gehlhaar, U.S. Navy

IRR Lead Test Engineer/Work Lead Code 246, Test & Work Control Engineering Division

"The knowledge I gained while qualifying various submarine watch stations and earning the Submarine Warfare pin (a.k.a. Dolphins) was key in providing the vital foundation for the various positions I've held in Code 246. [This job allows] me to continue serving this country, just in a different capacity."

Idrese Manning, U.S. Marines Corps

Production Waterfront Safety Advocate Code 900S, Waterfront Safety

"It's important to protect those who can't protect themselves - and the peaceful way of life and freedoms we enjoy. We celebrate the sacrifices that our active and [former] military personnel have made for all of us to enjoy a country where you can purse your dreams and goals."

Janee Morgan, U.S. Air Force

eLearning Supervisor Code 109, Information Technology and Cyber Security Office

"[Military service] builds character, instills values that are used throughout life, teaches you to be part of a team and gives you pride in representing our country. Recognition of Veteran's Day is important to show we support the efforts and sacrifices so many have made."