Q: Why did you be a part of the Navy?
A: I initially needed to get out of Connecticut and see one thing completely different and as a way of caring for my daughter on the time. I solely needed to affix the army for 3 or 4 years and get out to be a chef someplace. I anticipated the Navy to offer me the fundamental expertise and cash I wanted to go to culinary college. Quick-forward 28 years later and I can see that the Navy gave me a chance past my expectations and that’s why I am nonetheless in immediately. I’ve traveled the world to at the very least 30 completely different nations and have a number of levels and certifications all paid for by the Navy. Lastly, my household is nicely taken care of. So in case you have been to inform the 18-year-old Lateef Compton from Hartford, Connecticut that he would someday be sitting within the Kingdom of Bahrain with the chance to affect hundreds, he would say, “no approach.”
Q: You’ve been stationed in fifth Fleet earlier than. What was your expertise?
A: My first time in fifth Fleet was aboard USS Enterprise in 2003 after which once more aboard USS Abraham Lincoln in 2004 – each instances supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. I returned to Bahrain in 2009 aboard USS O’Kane, and once more in 2017 as the primary senior enlisted chief for Mixed Maritime Forces. I spent 28 months right here establishing the significance of the senior enlisted position for worldwide companions and created the Maritime Safety Convention Senior Enlisted Symposium.
Q: Why did you resolve to return to Bahrain?
A: This was a fantastic alternative to come back again and work with so many proficient Sailors, Marines, Coastguardsmen, Troopers and worldwide companions. Saying no to this chance wasn’t an choice. Bahrain’s tradition is so wealthy with togetherness and household that I really missed it once I went again to the US. You will get so many issues achieved right here and everyone seems to be extraordinarily pleasant.
Q: Because the U.S. fifth Fleet command grasp chief, what position do you play for army households dwelling in Bahrain?
A: I play a key position to all service members and their households for communication and assist companies provided at NSA Bahrain. Basically, I’m a household advocate. I’m assured that the traces of communication will stay open by being out and in regards to the base, utilizing my AFN radio present as a platform, and by pushing info out to every command’s senior enlisted chief and ombudsman.
Q: What ought to service members count on from you throughout your tour?
A: They need to count on me to be current and targeted on what proper seems to be like for the whole area. I’ll at all times be trustworthy with them and have an open thoughts to recommendations and concepts. I need to be part of the constructive legacy that Bahrain is understood for, and by being the fifth Fleet CMC, I might be concerned in each a part of our mission.
