USS Dwight D. Eisenhower – Capt. Christopher Hill

The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) just returned from a momentous nine month deployment in the Middle East during which they were engaged in one of the longest sustained sea combat periods for a US aircraft carrier since World War II. Their commanding officer, Captain Christopher “Chowdah” Hill joins us to share how he maintained motivation and morale in the face of two extended deployment periods.

Chowdah became a social media celebrity for his posts during the deployment. His original intent was just for family members back home to see their sailors. Things really “flexed” when Houthi rebels began posting that they had successful attacked and even sunk the Eisenhower. Chowdah replied by posting photos of his galley baking cookies and life progressing as normal aboard the ship.  Of course, he adds that he had to be very careful about what he posted because they were in a threat combat environment.

Chowdah shares some of the ways they maintained morale and motivation during the deployment. This included “Captain Demo”, a dog whose goal and mission was simply to reduce stress. Demo rapidly became part of the crew and was even received requests to visit some of the other ships in the task force. The Eisenhower also had a licensed clinical social worker and five chaplains. The ship’s complement also included both a “Life Boss” and “Talk Boss”, two civilian professionals who helped with stress management. He adds that having Wifi so sailors could reach back home was a game changer.

Captain Hill also shares his philosophy “The Way of the Warrior Sailor”. This twenty page document focuses on how to improve and maintain morale.

TAKEWAY: “Morale will lead to combat success if you do it right. To do it you must love and value everybody. You’ve GOT to show it.”