Our History By Mamoru Okita

I have many stories with Travis, but the best ones are the fun times I had with him. I have stories of his courage, his discipline, his loyalty to family, friends and himself. This is a story of our History. In Apprenticeship School at ASW Base Travis arrived a few days after me. Travis and a few buddies caused trouble everywhere. We started training for BUD/S and have stories of swimming in full fatigues across the Bay, jumping off the bridge in to the Bay that crosses over to Spanish Landing, and Rigorous Physical Training. We were then scheduled different classes and that's when I when we went our own ways. Soon after he went to his ship and I went to mine. It wasn't until early 2000 that I heard he was coming to the Oldendorf. First, I was trying to remember if that was his full name. I remembered Travis Roger Weston. Then I was curious as to why he was coming to the Oldendorf. I was excited. Part of being in the Navy is seeing old friends later on and to compare stories. I had my Second Class, I had my ESWS, and was almost Sonar Supervisor Qualified. I was ready to brag. Travis was the same, lean, strong funny and witty. Guess what? He was also a Second Class, ESWS and almost Sonar Supervisor Qualified, even farther than I was. I thought, 'wow Travis, you're all over it.' Even though he was getting out soon, he put his 100% into everything. I was so amazed at his dedication to duty. He was still trying to get Sup Qualed. I asked why and he said that he just wanted it. I asked him many questions about motivation and dedication. He never had the answers, he just did it. It was his nature.