Lessons from the Sea: How Navy Service Shapes Community Leadership

By Mark Cooper, Treasurer, Klahanie HOA

Veterans Day is a time to reflect on service—not just in uniform, but in the countless ways people continue to give back to their communities. As I reflect on my Navy career and my current role in Klahanie, I’m reminded of the enduring lessons from life at sea that continue to guide me today.

My time in the Navy was a profound journey that went far beyond a job—it fundamentally altered my perspective and provided me with invaluable life tools. The constant presence of the ocean was central to this experience. Its sheer power commanded respect and demanded that we be prepared for anything. Yet it also offered moments of breathtaking wonder: the deep blues, the diverse marine life, the quiet beauty of a starlit night at sea. Witnessing this power and wonder taught me resilience and humility. Now, more than 20 years retired from the Navy, I find many of those same principles and memories guiding my life, particularly in my current role serving as your treasurer on the Klahanie Board of Directors.

Beyond just following rules, I internalized the values of honor, courage, and commitment. I carry this integrity into my HOA service, ensuring transparency and fairness in our community's decisions. The vastness and power of the sea reinforced the importance of an "uncompromising code of integrity," reminding me how small we are and how vital it is to stand firm on our values.

Navy life taught me not to fear change, but to see it as an opportunity. The ever-changing nature of the ocean—from calm seas to tumultuous storms—was a constant teacher of adaptability and problem-solving skills, which are useful when navigating community changes and disputes on the HOA board.

The high-stress environment of aircraft carrier operations, combined with the wonders of the open ocean, forged bonds that last a lifetime. These people are more than friends; they're the extended family I can rely on.

I learned that true teamwork goes beyond collaboration; it's about mutual dependence. That same principle of trust and teamwork is vital for effective board operations—we succeed when we work together for the good of all residents.

The high-quality technical and leadership training I received wasn't just for Navy use; it helped build a successful civilian career. The skills I developed, from scrubbing decks to leading a team of more than 30 shipmates, translate directly to my role on the HOA board, where fiscal responsibility and clear communication are key. Life at sea demanded precision and competence, which are lessons I apply to community service.

Traveling the world offered unforgettable moments that shaped my perspective. I still remember the profound sense of peace ​​watching the sun rise over the ocean for the first time on deployment—a simple yet powerful reminder of the world's beauty and the serene side of the sea. Walking on foreign soil for the first time opened my eyes to new cultures and ways of life. This experience solidified my appreciation for diverse perspectives and a broader worldview.

I feel that pride every day, knowing I was part of an organization committed to global peace and security. That sense of shared purpose continues through my work on the board. The values I gained from the Navy—and the people I served with—directly drive my desire to ensure our neighborhood is a welcoming, well-managed place for everyone, embracing all our neighbors as part of our own small community.

This Veterans Day, I’m proud to serve alongside another Navy veteran on the board—two members who together bring more than four decades of service, leadership, and commitment. Klahanie benefits from the diverse experiences that come from life at sea and around the world.

The spirit of service and the lessons of the sea never truly retire.