Honoring 9/11: A Talk with Naval Cryptologist Richard Griffin

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Anthony Faccenda, GoLocalProv Lifestyle Contributor

After nearly twelve years of war in Afghanistan, it becomes easy to view our servicemen and women as a mere monolithic block. We often forget that each member of the United States military has face, an identity, and a story that should be told.

With this in mind, as well as in light of the 12th anniversary of the attacks of September 11, 2001, GoLocal has decided to give a face to one such serviceman: Naval Cryptology Technician and Providence native Richard Griffin. Here’s what Mr. Griffin had to say about his life, career in the military, and the anniversary of September 11.

Can you briefly discuss your time in Providence?

GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST

Actually, I only lived in Providence 'til I was about six. Then my family moved to Williamsburg, VA—my mom, dad, and two brothers. I guess it was a simple childhood, playing sports, going to school, getting into trouble as young boys do. I feel like I had a great upbringing a good home with good morals.

What inspired you to join the Navy?

My grandfather and my father inspired me to join the Navy. They are two of the greatest men that I will ever know. My grandfather actually retired from the Navy as a Chief. And my father served six years in the Marines. They taught me so much about life and just being an honorable man. I am named after my grandfather and wanted to follow in his footsteps.

Can you describe what a cryptologic technician does?

Basically we provide the Captain with a 360-degree land, sea and air picture. We keep watch of possible threats to the ship and update the navigational picture, such as other ships or aircraft in the vicinity.

What does it mean to you to be stationed aboard the USS Arlington, which was named to honor the victims and heroes of the 9/11 attack on the Pentagon?

To be a part of one of the three ships in remembrance of the attacks on September 11th is truly an honor. No amount of words can describe the amount of respect that I have for the brave men and women that responded to the call that day.

Seeing as we're closing in on the 12th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, what would you like the average reader to remember about that historic day?

Remember the people, the people that ran into burning buildings when everyone was running out. The people knowing that they have a loving family at home waiting for them, that gladly put there lives in danger to save total strangers. The people that you see in uniform everyday that may just be another face in the crowd stop them and thank them!

The average reader might tend to view those in the military as a monolithic block, and forget that you're all unique individuals. What are some the things that make you unique?

I am just a simple guy. I like to fish, go camping, travel and spend time with the people I love. Anything to do with the outdoors or the water and I am your guy.

For more information about the USS Arlington click here.

Related Articles

• Irene Shows Post 9/11 RI Is Prepared
• NEW: Alex and Ani Creates Commemorative Bangles for 9/11
• A Father Remembers His Lost Son - A 9/11 Tribute
• NEW: Does Osama bin Laden’s Death Give Closure to 9/11?
• 9/11/2001-9/11/2011: Family Remembers Loved Ones
• NEW: Naval War College to Hold 9/11 Ceremony in Newport
• 9/11/2001: Where Were You?... Prominent RIers Remember the Day
• NEW: Remembering RI’s Victims of 9/11
• A LIVELY EXPERIMENT: Remembering 9/11
• RI Commemorative Events for 9/11
• A LIVELY EXPERIMENT: Remembering 9/11 Pt. 2
• RI Media To Remember 9/11 In A Special Way
• Family Matters: Talking with Kids About 9/11

Enjoy this post? Share it with others.