By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve Watterworth
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tom Gagnier
NORFOLK – A 2008 Meadville Area Senior High School graduate and Meadville, Pennsylvania native is serving in the U.S. Navy with Coastal Riverine Squadron (CRS) 2.
A Navy hull technician on a CRS patrol boat is responsible for welding and fabricating marine sanitation systems.
“I love my job. I think the best part of it is that I get to use my skills in the civilian world as well as on a ship,” said Bowman.
Bowman credits his success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in his hometown of Meadville.
“My hometown taught me to never forget where you came from and to work hard to get where you need to go,” said Bowman. "There is a strong moral base and a respect for others that I brought into the Navy.”
The men and women of the U.S. Navy’s Coastal Riverine Force provide port and harbor security, high value asset protection and maritime security operations in coastal and inland waterways.
“I like the fact that serving here, with this command, doesn’t limit you to just one job,” said Bowman. “We have opportunities to do and learn many things.”
For two years in a row CRS-2 has won the Navy’s coveted "Battle E" Award, an award that not only recognizes excellence in sustained superior performance in an operational environment, but for being the best squadron in the Coastal Riverine Force. Eligibility for this award demands day-to-day demonstrated excellence in addition to superior achievement during certifications and qualifications conducted throughout the competitive period.
In addition to this achievement, they also won the 2017 Chief of Naval Operations
Off Duty Safety Award, a first for any unit under the charge of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command.
"This squadron's success is due to the dedication and caliber of its sailors at all levels,” said Cmdr. Joe Droll, commanding officer of CRS-2. “The demands placed on them are high, and they often make sacrifices to meet the mission, whether its training boat crews, security teams, maintainers or operation center watch standers. Through all the challenges they find a way to get the job done.”
Though there are many ways for a sailor to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, Bowman is most proud of becoming the lead engineer for the Mark VI patrol boat.
“I'm in charge of all the programs that have to do with the operation of the craft,” said Bowman.
While serving in the Navy may present many challenges, Bowman has found reward in service.
“Don't ever give up, keep striving for excellence and the Navy will help you out,” said Bowman.