Story By: JO2 Henry W. Rice
email: parice72@cv62.navy.mil
Date: February 3, 1998
Who says you can't come home again? Capt. Jim Joyner (ret. USN) has returned to USS Independence (CV 62) for the first time since serving as the executive officer here from 1980-1982.
Joyner, who retired from the Navy in 1991 after 30 years of service, now works for Boeing as the Aircrew Training Group Manager for the Carrier Based Weapons Systems Trainer (CV-WST). He's on board to help teach the training officers and pilots from the three F/A-18 squadrons from Carrier Air Wing FIVE on how to use the CV-WST, the first flight simulator installed on an aircraft carrier.
"Boeing knew that I was the XO of Independence," said Joyner, "and they thought it would be beneficial to send me out here, because of my experience on the ship and in the Navy."
The CV-WST is a major advancement in technology aboard ships, and Joyner said that is what has been the biggest change he's noticed since the early '80's. When Joyner was the XO here, there were very few computers on board he said. They were big and used for keeping track of supplies and maintenance.
"Where we've come technology-wise and the equipment that's provided on the ship is the biggest change I've seen," said Joyner. "When I walk around the ship, through the different spaces, I see computers everywhere, including laptops on desks. You even see computers in berthing spaces and staterooms."
Joyner believes all the technology advances has helped to boost the quality of life and morale of the modern day Sailor.
Now Indy Sailors can communicate with their families using AT&T phones and the ship's e-mail, however, back in the early 80's, ham radio and letter mail (now commonly referred to as "snail mail") was the only way to stay in touch with loved ones back home.
"I have been extremely impressed with the overall attitude of the crew. They are very positive ... very upbeat. They look good and appear to be very proud of their ship," said Joyner. "I think all the advances in technology has something to do with that."
Joyner said he tried to keep track of the Independence and her schedule over the last 16 years and is glad he had the opportunity to come back and see the ship. He said the ship's crew has been extremely helpful to him and the rest of the Boeing crew during the installation and integration of the CV-WST on board.
He added that he would like to try and be in the crowd when Independence is decommissioned later this year.