A New Chapter

My first unit! On the cutter in San Diego

Back in 2010 I wrote a note on facebook, excitedly informing my friends and family that I had decided to join the Coast Guard. Now, almost 5 years later, I’m writing to inform you all that I will be leaving. My contract will be up in early next year and I have decided NOT to reenlist or extend. This is completely voluntary, as I made this decision about a year ago.

I want to emphasize that I have LOVED my time in the Coast Guard. People often ask me what being in the Coast Guard is like, and I always have nothing but good things to say. Looking back, I cherish the memories I made over these years:

I remember, being in boot camp and having secret Bible studies at night with the other guys in my squad bay.

I remember, facing a stormy sea, lined up in formation on the beach. Our company commander, with his smokey the bear hat low over his eyes, pointing out at the storm and yelling, “Recruits! This *jabbing his finger at the waves* is your new office!”

I remember, going to my first unit: A cutter based out of San Diego, CA. I remember the excitement of chasing drug smugglers off the coast of South America and rescuing Alaskan fishermen in the Bering Sea.

I played guitar for church every Sunday morning while underway. I remember, I had a deep respect for our captain, who was a committed Christian. Before any excursion we took, he would get alone and pray to God for guidance.
I remember my time on the Oregon Coast: working with disabled veterans and flying in helicopters.

Just like any other job, there were good days and bad days. But overall I’m simply thankful for the experiences I have had while serving. This new chapter in my life is one that I’m REALLY looking forward to though. I’m not going to go into detail about what I’ll be doing next, but I trust that He who began a good work in me will carry it on to completion (Phil. 1:6).

One of my favorite verses, and one that I've been thinking about lately is 1 Corinthians 10:31 “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” In this next chapter of my life, I pray that I would glorify God in ALL that I do.