Master Chief Electronics Technician (Communications)(SS) Timothy W. Lough is overcome with emotion while describing his appreciation for the love, sacrifice and support of his wife during his 30 years of service at his retirement ceremony. Lough received a handmade shadowbox, various mementos, and was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal.
Master Chief Electronics Technician (Communications) (Submarines) (SS) Timothy W. Lough retired following 30 years of loyal service at a ceremony held at the Naval Submarine Force Library and Museum/Historic Ship Nautilus in Groton, July 20.
Family and shipmates from around the nation gathered to honor and pay tribute to the Parkersburg, W. Va. native. One of his former shipmates and friend, Chief Electronics Technician (Submarines) (SS) Michael M. Gerry served as the master of ceremonies for Lough’s retirement.
"On behalf of our many shipmates, including those who made the supreme sacrifice for this great nation, we are proud to present you with a military man’s most honored and cherished possession, the United States national ensign," said Gerry.
The flag presented to Lough carried special meaning to the faithful submariner by saluting his roots, naval history, his favorite football team and his last duty station. The flag was flown over the battleship Missouri, USS Missouri (SSN 780), the West Virginia Mountaineer football stadium and Heinz field in Pittsburgh.
Lough’s first assignment was as the Naval Submarine School Calibration Coordinator, Groton. While serving at his first assignment, he volunteered for submarine duty. He attended Basic Enlisted Submarine School and Electronic Warfare Support Measures "C" School.
In June 1986, he reported to his first submarine, USS Cavalla (SSN 684) in Pearl Harbor. While there he completed a Western Pacific deployment. By the time he transferred, he had attained his submarine qualifications and what many Sailors spend a career trying to achieve, the rank of a chief petty officer.
In November 1991, Lough was recommended and granted orders to instructor duty at Naval Submarine School, Groton. While at Naval Submarine School, he served as the leading instructor for five "C" school courses of instruction.
In his next assignment he served as the leading chief petty officer aboard USS Grayling (SSN 646). While serving aboard USS Grayling, Lough became part of history when it was awarded the Joint Meritorious Unit Award for successful operations in conjunction with the Air Force and Coast Guard. USS Grayling was the first submarine to earn this award.
Lough reported in May 2008 to USS Missouri (SSN 780), which would serve as his twilight tour highlighting his 30-year successful career in the U.S. Navy.
At his retirement, Lough was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, a portion of his citation noted that his mentorship helped foster a successful chief’s quarters instrumental in executing every key milestone aboard USS Missouri.
Lough was honored by his shipmates, friends and families, who reflected on his service to our nation and his transition to his next chapter in life. "You are relieved, we have the watch," said Gerry.
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