Mariner wins award . . . mariner wins award
When First Assistant Engineer Tim Bobseine of USNS Supply won an award recently, he must have thought his life was a broken record. Not only was Bobseine presented the MSC Mariner Award of Excellence for 2001, but he was also honored as the Marine Employee of the Year for 2001.
The many quality mariners who serve alongside him aboard Supply are responsible for winning the award, according to Bobseine.
"Everyone aboard Supply, and particularly the engineering crew, has everything to do with my winning the awards," said Bobseine. "They all have talent and want to contribute."
Bobseine's boss, Capt. Terry Rycenga, master of USNS Supply, agrees that everyone on the ship contributes. "Supply has been fortunate to get top notch people in all ratings," said Capt. Rycenga.
Supply's transfer to MSC operation a year ago, gave all crewmembers opportunities to make a difference.
"The assignment presented me with challenges I'd never faced before – both people and equipment-wise," said Bobseine. "I just wanted success for the ship and the people working with me."
While Bobseine's efforts and those of his shipmates were key to winning the dual awards, he also benefited from working under a unique set of circumstances that brought him uncommon freedom in his duties.
Because Supply was the first fast combat support ship transferred to MSC operation, Bobseine and all the Supply crew members had no real road map for procedures. As a result, the crew was able to chart its own course.
"The beauty of getting assigned to something with no blueprint . . . is that you can be creative and tinker with something until it works," said Bobseine.
Capt. Rycenga knows that Bobseine takes responsibility for his work and leads by example. "Tim sets an extremely high standard in the work place. His subordinates respect him not only because of his professional aptitude, but also because he recognizes, draws out and nurtures strengths in people's abilities," said Capt. Rycenga.
Bobseine and his shipmates are the first civilian crew aboard Supply. They are also breaking new ground in another area. Supply has the first gas turbine propulsion plant in MSC's Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force.
In addition to being his inspiration, Bobseine's family also shares his excitement.
"My wife and four kids think it's great. My parents are proud, and that makes me feel good," said Bobseine, whose father turns 80 this fall.
Like most mariners, Bobseine looks forward to spending time with his family, but appreciates what his shipmates bring to his life, too.
"If I get irritated or a little side-tracked, they always find a way to make me laugh; I appreciate that the most," said Bobseine of his crew.
According to Capt. Rycenga, part of the key to Bobseine's success is how he approaches work and life. "No task is beyond his ability, and no crewmember below his recognition," said Capt. Rycenga.
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