Faces of Hamilton: Petty Officer 2nd Class Norbert E. Perret IV

Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Sydney Phoenix | Petty Officer 2nd Class Norbert E. Perret IV is a machinery technician from Demopolis, Alabama, stationed on USCGC Hamilton (WMSL 753) for three years, as seen here May 21, 2021, in the Atlantic Ocean. He is a member of the auxiliary division within the engineering department. Perret has qualifications as an underway engineer of the watch, a small boat engineer, and a law enforcement boarding team member. He also serves as Hamilton’s fuel, oil, and water king. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Sydney Phoenix)  

NORTH CHARLESTON, SC, UNITED STATES

06.04.2021

Story by Petty Officer 3rd Class Sydney Phoenix 

U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area

Petty Officer 2nd Class Norbert E. Perret IV is a machinery technician stationed on USCGC Hamilton for three years.

He is a member of the auxiliary division within the engineering department. Perret has qualifications as an underway engineer of the watch, a small boat engineer, and a law enforcement boarding team member. He also serves as Hamilton’s fuel, oil, and water king.

A fuel, oil, and water king or FOWK is responsible for keeping the engines running and keeping the ship riding smooth. They ensure enough fuel and move fuel from storage to service tanks feeding directly to the main diesel engines, generators, or gas turbines. They also confirm the ship is properly ballasted with saltwater depending on how much fuel the cutter has used to help maintain the ship's stability out at sea.

From Demopolis, Alabama, he decided to join the Coast Guard to escape corporate life for an adventure at sea. During Hamilton’s most recent deployment, the crew traveled to the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, visiting several different countries.

“I feel like the professional exchanges that we got to do with our allied and partner nations not only strengthened our relationships, but they helped us grow in understanding each other, not only as military members but as people,” Perret said.

Perret said the most challenging thing about this three-month deployment was time away from his family, but being able to try foods from different countries and seeing historic sites was well worth it.

His advice to anyone thinking about cutter life and deployments: “Underway is the only way. Cutter life is great. Nothing beats seeing the stars in the middle of the sea or any of the many sunsets and marine life on the open ocean.”

• Date Taken: 06.04.2021
• Date Posted: 06.04.2021 15:04
• Story ID: 398135
• Location: NORTH CHARLESTON, SC, US
• Hometown: DEMOPOLIS, AL, US