The Saga of the
SUBMARINE
Why They Wear Dolphins
Page 2
BUT WHAT brought about the ultimate decision?
Most gave more than one reason. Some were lured by the call of adventure, and the
opportunities available to seek greater challenges and to tackle more responsibility.
Others sought a more rounded career.
For 20 per cent, the idea of being part of an organization so well endowed with
prestige, esprit de corps, and high morale was appealing. That image is the result,
they say, of the need for teamwork and close-living compatibility, coupled with
the reputation built through the deeds of their WW II predecessors.
And it is significant to note that nearly 46 per cent were attracted by the higher
pay afforded submariners, as well as for some of the foregoing reasons. That extra
pay, it goes without saying, was a motivating factor. What with life the way it is
aboard a submarine, how does one adjust?
The overwhelming reply was that submariners must first learn to adjust to their
unusual environment, then do their best to get along with their shipmates. Many
indicated that the problem of adjustment is an individual one.
Keeping active is important, according to one underseaman. He claims that if a
man earnestly tries to contribute to the over-all effectiveness and betterment
of the ship, he can forget his own discomforts.
“Experience in human relations is helpful,” states another. “Even if you have none
to begin with, you soon become an expert – otherwise you won’t stay in submarines.”
Another submariner feels that adjustment is no problem because those who are unable
to adapt are weeded out before or during their Submarine School indoctrination.
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© Ric Hedman 1998
- 2007
The author
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