Archive Record
Images
Additional Images [14]
Metadata
Title |
John Crescenzo |
Object Name |
Digital Audio Recording |
Audio Recording |
Click here to hear the Oral History file. |
Scope & Content |
John Crescenzo Interview John Crescenzo's Early Life and Military Enlistment Bill Cimino introduces John Crescenzo and the purpose of the interview for the Library of Congress Veterans History Project. John Crescenzo shares his background, growing up in Saugus, Massachusetts, and his lack of military heritage except for his grandfather who served in World War II. John recounts his troubled high school years, including substance use and nearly failing out, which led him to consider joining the military. John describes meeting a Navy recruiter while skipping class and taking a practice ASVAB test, scoring a 99, which led to his enlistment. Initial Military Training and Career Path John explains his initial surprise and his parents' reaction to his decision to join the Navy. He details his high ASVAB score and the career fields he was offered, ultimately choosing the nuclear program over advanced electronics. John describes his basic training at Great Lakes, Illinois, and the challenges of adapting to military life, including the heat and strict rules. He shares his experience as a starboard watch section leader and the routine of basic training, which helped him get through it. Advanced Training and Nuclear Program John discusses his advanced training at Goose Creek, South Carolina, and the rigorous electrical training he received. He explains the difference between prototype reactors in South Carolina and New York, and his assignment to the prototype reactor in New York. John describes the intense training at the prototype reactor, including operating the reactor daily and the safety measures in place. He recounts the stand-down period due to rule violations and the extended time he spent at the prototype reactor. First Assignment and Submarine Experience John talks about his first assignment on the USS Tennessee, an SSBN submarine, and the refueling process he witnessed. He describes the challenging conditions during refueling, including long hours and rotating shifts. John shares his experience of operating the reactor plant during sea trials and the thrill of testing the submarine's capabilities. He reflects on the camaraderie and activities that helped the crew cope with long deployments underwater. Teaching and Instructor Role John discusses his transition to becoming an instructor at the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command, teaching basic electricity and electronics. He describes the shift from passive to active learning styles, which significantly reduced attrition rates in his classes. John highlights his professional achievement of implementing the new teaching methods, which are now used across the training command. He mentions his recognition as Instructor of the Year and the support he received from Chief Nate Woodhull. Reserve Duty and Final Reflections John explains his move to the reserves after leaving active duty, including his assignment to Surge Main Jacksonville and his duties. He contrasts the culture and motivation levels between active duty and reserve duty, expressing his preference for active duty. John describes his final assignment as a chief in CNSG Southeast, where he continued to work on maintenance and training. He reflects on the impact of the military on his life, emphasizing the opportunities it provided and the lessons he learned. |
Object ID |
2025.VHP.005 |
Collection |
AIMH Veterans History Project |
Caption |
John Crescenzo |
Interview place |
Amelia Island Museum of History |
Interviewer |
Bill Cimino |
Narrator's name |
John Crescenzo |
Number of images |
20 |
People |
Crescenzo, John |
Search Terms |
Navy |
Date |
03/23/2025 |