Fair Winds and Following Seas: A Tribute to My Veteran and Husband, Lieutenant Commander Scott Brubaker, USN (Ret.)

Lt Commander Scott Brubaker Retirement Ceremony, Pearl Harbor at USS Arizona Memorial, 1997

This Veterans Day, my heart swells with pride and gratitude as I honor my husband, Lieutenant Commander Scott Brubaker, whose 23 years of faithful service to the United States Navy shaped not only his career but our family’s journey as well. His story is one of leadership, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to country and calling — a life charted by the stars, the sea, and the steadfast values that define a naval officer.

From our first duty station at Pearl Harbor, where every sunrise over the Arizona Memorial whispered a reminder of those who came before, Scott embraced his mission with humility and purpose. His duties in petroleum operations ensured the lifeblood of the fleet kept flowing — a responsibility he carried with precision and pride. Every drop of fuel represented readiness, every operation a testament to teamwork and leadership.

Across decades of service, the Navy offered both challenge and reward — from the bustle of Fleet Weeks and hosting Russian ship tours, to the camaraderie of Navy Birthday Balls where tradition, honor, and esprit de corps were celebrated in full regalia. Beneath the surface, there were the quiet sacrifices — the missed anniversaries, the long deployments, and the unaccompanied 1-year tour to Diego Garcia, which we fondly called the Navy’s “wedding gift.” Those months apart tested our endurance but strengthened our resolve. We learned the true meaning of faith, resilience, and love across the miles.

Scott’s journey culminated with distinction at CINCPACFLT (Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet) — the very heart of naval strategy in the Pacific. There, his steady hand contributed to missions that spanned the Asian Theater and strengthened alliances. It was the culmination of a career marked by discipline, intellect, and integrity — the hallmarks of an officer and gentleman.

And when the time came to retire, it was only fitting that his service ended where we began — at Pearl Harbor, with the USS Arizona Memorial standing watch in solemn grace. Beneath the Hawaiian sun, surrounded by shipmates, family, and friends, Scott’s journey came full circle. The moment carried both gravity and grace — the end of active duty, yet the continuation of a lifetime of purpose.

As I look back through the photos — from white uniforms gleaming under tropical skies to the polished shoes of countless ceremonies — I see more than a career. I see a calling. A life guided by the Navy’s enduring values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment, lived not for recognition but for service itself.

To my husband — thank you for leading with humility, serving with strength, and loving with constancy. You have worn the uniform with distinction, and you continue to inspire with your quiet grace and steadfast heart.

Fair winds and following seas, my love. You have served your nation with honor — and our family with devotion beyond measure.