And what talent

I am amazed at the collection of talent that reports for work week. We have people with all kinds of professional skills. We have electricians, welders, plumbers, painters, pipe fitters, HVAC specialists, mechanics, skilled office workers and many more. No matter what skill level you come with there is always something you can do. Many of our volunteers gladly work outside their expertise when needed where ever they are needed. No one is too proud to chip paint, haul mud or get dirty. Everyone chips in. "What can I do to help" is a common question. I am also amazed at the amount if ingenuity and creativity they can come up with. Obstacles are overcome and jobs are done. More than once I have heard "It takes 30 minutes to find the stuff to do a 5 minute job". Not easily discouraged, they improvise. I have also observed that safety is always in the forefront. You would think, that with all the work to do there might be some safety short cuts, but everyone tries to be extra careful and watches out for each other.
The slogan "no job to big or small" certainly fits here. Another impressive thing I have observed; everyone generally gets along and works as a team. If there is a problem, the work together to find a solution. No supervisor has to constantly monitor them. One might think they are getting paid well to do this hard work. The only pay they receive is three hots and a cot. They are here out of love for the ship and her history. All are here on their own dime and time. Many are retired but many take vacation time from jobs and families to come to work week. They are not all spring chickens but all chip in to do what they can. Sure we may have to take a rest after climbing from the tank deck to the 01 level, but spirits and morale are high and determination prevails. I venture to say you will never find such cooperation, determination, and drive in the work force as these volunteers exhibit. In this way we pay our respects to those who served on the ship and those who served our country. When work week is done, we never say good-by, only see you next time. The work will be there.
Bravo Zulu troops.