MEREDITH — Seaman Apprentice James Minkle, a native of Meredith, is one of the sailors continuing a 123-year tradition of service under the sea to help ensure Americans’ safety as a submariner with the U.S. Navy.
Minkle joined the Navy nearly one year ago and today serves as a torpedoman's mate aboard USS Florida.
“I've always wanted to join the military,” said Minkle. "I grew up reading a lot of World War II books and joining the Navy seemed like a noble way to serve my country."
Minkle attended Inter-Lakes High School and graduated in 2022. Skills and values similar to those found in Meredith are similar to those required to succeed in the military.
“I used to work in an auto shop back home,” said Minkle. “That taught me mechanical skills, and how to take a joke while not living life too seriously. I also learned back home how to take things apart and put them back together, which is critical to firearms and explosives, what I work with in the submarine force."
He adds, “I'd like to thank my previous co-worker, Frank, who was a Vietnam veteran that served in the Navy. He was an inspiration to me."
“Serving in the Navy makes me proud,” said Minkle. “I look forward to what the future has for my naval career, and I can't wait to earn my 'fish'."
(0) comments
Welcome to the discussion.
Log In
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.