U.S. Navy Father, Son Trailblazers Share Military Leadership Experience with HU NROTC

U.S. Navy Father, Son Trailblazers Share Military Leadership Experience with HU NROTC

(L to R) CMC Melvin Williams, Sr.; ADM Melvin Williams, Jr.; Thomas Halley, commanding office of Hampton Roads NROTC consortium; and Lt. Austin Burkett of HU.

Hampton University welcomed father and son military leaders retired Admiral Melvin Williams, Jr. and retired Command Master Chief Melvin Williams, Sr. on Feb. 17. The two shared their nearly 60 consecutive years of military leadership experience with midshipmen in HU's Navy ROTC program.

The pair recently co-authored the book, “Navigating the Seven Seas: Leadership Lessons of the First African American Father and Son to Serve at the Top in the U.S. Navy.” They shared with the midshipmen tips on navigating through the ranks by employing what they call the "Seven Cs" of leadership: Character, Competence, Courage, Commitment, Caring, Communicating, and Community. The students asked several questions and enjoyed the visit.

Vice Admiral Williams, a 1978 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, served 32 years (1978-2010) in submarines, Fleet, and Joint assignments. His final assignment was as Commander, U.S. Second Fleet in Norfolk, Va. He has several military and civic awards for service and leadership. He resides in Alexandria, Va.

Master Chief Williams served 27 years (1951-1978) in submarines, aircraft carriers, and surface ships, with a final assignment as Command Master Chief. His many awards include the Meritorious Service Medal and six Good Conduct Medals. He resides in Temple Hills, Md.

-Alison L. Phillips