December 22, 2021
December 22, 2021
Lydia and family, I was crushed to hear of Dave's passing in your Christmas card. In Dave's Drive War Zone Blog I had the honor of being his Main Propulsion Assistant on USS ENGLAND (CG 22). It was my second Division Officer tour, having come from a tour on another ship based out of San Diego. I had come from that ship thinking I would do my tour on ENGLAND and resign my commission. Serving under Dave's leadership and tutelage, and being allowed to grow as a Naval Officer, I would continue to my Navy career as a Surface Warfare Officer, with the honor of serving as Commanding Officer, USS DULUTH (LPD 6).
Those were memorable days on ENGLAND, working hard and playing hard, but never forgetting the mission. I vividly remember him sitting in his stateroom playing in cards with the two Chief Warrant Officers, while the men of Engineering Department would be lighting off the plant to get underway on time. While I led the light off I know he was always there to support me if I needed him.
I think it is fitting for Dave to be buried at sea with full military honors. Wish I could be there.
CAPT Paul A. Cruz, USN (RET)
Main Propulsion Assistant, USS ENGLAND (CG 22), 1994-1996
Those were memorable days on ENGLAND, working hard and playing hard, but never forgetting the mission. I vividly remember him sitting in his stateroom playing in cards with the two Chief Warrant Officers, while the men of Engineering Department would be lighting off the plant to get underway on time. While I led the light off I know he was always there to support me if I needed him.
I think it is fitting for Dave to be buried at sea with full military honors. Wish I could be there.
CAPT Paul A. Cruz, USN (RET)
Main Propulsion Assistant, USS ENGLAND (CG 22), 1994-1996