In many ways, James Williams is a lot like any other teammate at STP. He enjoys working for the company, and has spent the past five years as an ISI engineer. James hopes to be a part of the team that “helps STP get that shine back” and also grow and develop with the company in his area of expertise.
However, it’s his second job that differentiates James from many other teammates at STP. Last June, he was deployed to Afghanistan for up to a year as a convoy security element (CSE) Convoy Commander for Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 28. CSE teams are in charge of conducting convoy security operations driving Mine Resistant-Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles to escort passengers, equipment, and supplies. The work of the CSE team is dangerous, providing convoy security and route clearance. In addition, the battalion will work to train Afghan forces in order to eventually turn responsibilities back over to them.
“It’s about the same as driving down the rural roads in south Texas and avoiding the deer and hogs,” laughs Williams. “Seriously, we have a highly trained and experienced unit that works to provide security for convoys. We also know that the enemy is well trained and well-funded so we have to be prepared. The Navy is my second family. It’s the people. Through the years, we’ve built strong friendships. We have chewed dirt together so we have something special.”
Williams recently honored STP with a framed flag that was flown over the U.S. Naval Batallion in Afghanistan. STP’s Women in Nuclear Supporting Troops and Patriotism Committee have been supporting Williams and other U.S. military members. The plaque will be displayed at STP.
In 2006, Williams was deployed to Iraq for 10 months. He has served in the Navy for 14 years.
“It takes a special person to be able to leave their family, their job and go do something like this,” said Lyle Spiess, Supervisor NDE Testing Programs. “We’re proud of his commitment and service to our country.”
As an ISI Engineer, Williams manages and oversees the inspection and implementation of NRC licensing requirements. During his absence, STP’s engineering team is absorbing his responsibilities. Prior to his departure, his team held a barbecue for Williams and his family.
“The support of my STP team has been overwhelming,” said Williams. “They’ve taken on my work load as theirs while I’m gone.”
Williams grew up in Detroit, Michigan, and got involved with the Navy through the Sea Cadet program in high school. After his active duty tour, he attended the University of Houston, studying mechanical engineering. Williams has more than 15 years’ experience in the Non-Destructive Examination testing field. From 2005-2008, he worked for Sonic Systems — a contractor that does work for STP during outages. In 2008, he was offered a full-time position at STP.
When asked why he was going back for another tour of duty last June in Afghanistan, Williams was brief and to the point.
“It’s about being part of something bigger than myself,” said Williams. “The Navy’s core values are honor, commitment, and courage. We have an obligation to see this mission through.”
James Williams, STP ISI Engineer and CSE Convoy Commander for Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 28. He is currently on his second tour of duty in Afghanistan.
James Williams honored STP with a framed flag flown over the U.S. Naval Battalion in Afghanistan. STP’s Women in Nuclear Supporting Troops and Patriotism Committee have been supporting Williams and other U.S. military members. Pictured are STP WIN Committee Members Valerie Henson, Coral Bettancourt, Cathy Gann, Susie Brannon, and DeDe Powell.