In Memory of Sean “LingMar” Marling
Sean and I served together aboard the USS Bluefish SSN-675 and on shore duty from 1992 to 1998, both of us mechanics in M-div. We were young, determined, and always finding ways to make the days go by. Sean’s nickname was “LingMar”—not the most original, but it fit him just fine. My nickname was “Shady JD,” short for Jeffrey David Miller.
I remember the M-div handshake contests to see who could out squeeze the other. I don’t think Sean ever lost. We also had a prank called “Cow Collar,” where we’d stretch out the front neck of someone’s white t-shirt so far it never recovered. It was harmless mischief, born out of long submarine hours and close quarters.
Sean was my Spades card partner during one deployment, and he was a master at going nil. Even though we hadn’t spoken in years, I know we would’ve picked up right where we left off. That was the kind of bond Sean formed with everyone—genuine, easy, and lasting.
Fair winds and following seas, shipmate. You’re remembered with respect, gratitude, and a deep sense of connection.