“Ancora imparo.”
The quote is attributed to Michelangelo who is known for many famous works, including the painted fresco on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Italy.
“I am still learning” is what it means, and the Renaissance painter, sculptor, poet and architect is believed to have said it – when he was 87.
Herbert Russell, who currently serves on board USNS Yukon (T-AO 202) as an electronics technician, shares that sentiment.
“Life is hard, but it’s even harder without an education” he says.
Russell holds several degrees and certificates: a Bachelor of Science in education from Southeast Missouri State University; an Associate’s Degree in applied science from the Spartan School of Aeronautics in Sikeston, Mo., and a private pilot license from Joliff Flight School in Tulsa, Okla.
But that’s not enough for Russell. He’s always learning something new.
“You can never stop learning.”
“I taught myself radio through self-study and started out as a telegrapher,” Russell said.
“I also taught myself basic computer skills when I was 45 years old and have tried to stay current.
“I’m now 70 years old and still learn something new each day.”
Russell is passionate about education and enthusiastically shares his knowledge with others.
He taught adult basic education classes in his hometown of St. Louis, Mo. Russell also taught science to students throughout his local area. His classrooms expanded beyond the borders of Missouri – even the United States – when he taught English as a second language in Japan and Taiwan.
Before joining Military Sealift Command 18 years ago, Russell worked for the Cessna Aircraft Company. He’s gone from flying high in the skies to serving on the high seas. Regardless of where he lands, Russell urges his fellow civil service mariners to “keep learning.”
How would you describe your job?
My job is to keep various radio circuits up and running including voice, data, and Direct-To-Sailor television. When official messages arrive, I route them to the appropriate people. When there is a message to send out, I make sure it is formatted correctly and transmitted. I also trouble shoot and, if possible, repair radio equipment in the department.
How does your position contribute to mission accomplishment?
It’s vital to have good communications while out at sea. Telephones, message traffic, fax, internet, and television all depend on having a working knowledge of how radio works. It’s hard to function these days without reliable communications. I don’t think the mission could be accomplished without good communication.
What's the most difficult or challenging part of your job?
COVID-19 has posed many challenges. Obtaining replacement parts is a bit trickier, and isolating a problem in a complicated piece of equipment can be difficult. But, we all adapt to overcome the challenges and ensure the mission gets done.
What's the most satisfying part of your job?
I’m most gratified when I can bring up a circuit or bring a piece of equipment back to life again.
What would you say to others who may be interested in supporting MSC?
Stay in school for as long as possible and learn as much as you can before you come out here. MSC is good for someone who enjoys lots of travel.
| Date Taken: |
02.26.2021 |
| Date Posted: |
03.01.2021 00:18 |
| Story ID: |
389988 |
| Location: |
U.S. 7TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY |
| Web Views: |
86 |
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This work, Lifelong Learner Michelangelo has Nothing on Mariner from Missouri, by Leslie Hull-Ryde, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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