North Carolina Mason
Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/1512454
Maru was a high school fisheries training ship. Nine people aboard the Ehime Maru were killed – four students, two teachers, and three crew members. The tragedy made international headlines. Several families were torn apart and Waddle and his crew were thrown into emotional chaos. In the official investigations that followed, several components of the USS Greenville's equipment were cited as the culprit for the sub's failure to recognize or register the position of the Ehime Maru. Despite the advice of attorneys and direction from the United States Navy to deny culpability, Waddle stepped up and took full responsibility for his actions and the disaster. That October, he was honorably discharged from the Navy and proceeded to make amends for the collision that claimed the lives of nine individuals. During his presentation at the Grand Master's Banquet, Waddle stated the disaster was the lowest point of his life. He felt he disappointed his family, his crew, the United States Navy, and the nation. Yet, through it all, and with a reliance on God, he came to understand his trials and tribulations as a call to action. "Failure is not final," he told the audience. If for no other reason, he was determined to live and honor the lives lost on that fateful day. More than ever, this hardship was the foundation upon which to right wrongs and inspire others to live truthfully, honestly, and accept responsibility for one's actions. Waddle's story is remarkable and humbling. He chronicled this episode in his life in a book entitled The Right Thing. His words are as much documentation of the event as they are therapy for his soul, as well as a lesson for those willing to listen and heed – that despite any and all adversity, you have to do the right thing. The right thing for our brothers and sisters on this earth, for ourselves, and in the eyes of the Creator. It's a lesson we as Masons should know and understand – to live truthfully, honestly, and in honor of God. For many years following his retirement from the Navy, Waddle and his family lived south of Raleigh in Cary. He now resides in Washington State. The right thing for our brothers and sisters on this earth, for ourselves, and in the eyes of the Creator. It's a lesson we as Masons should know and understand – to live truthfully, honestly, and in honor of God. FA L L 2 0 2 3 | 13