From the USSVI National Commander: Our Purpose/Creed

Shipmates,

Several weeks ago I sent a message to all bases entitled “A message from your National Commander.”

The purpose of that message was to remind those who may have forgotten and to inform those who did not know as to the total purpose of USSVI as expressed in Article III of our Constitution.

Most of us merely recite the purpose of USSVI as stated in Paragraph one, also known as “The Creed”, but there actually are two additional sections to Article III that complete and define our purpose as an organization and state the reasons we exist.

It is perfectly acceptable to use the first paragraph (Statement of Purpose/Creed) on our websites, in our publications and to recite in our meetings in the same way it is perfectly acceptable to sing only the first stanza of the Star Spangled Banner, even though there are four additional stanzas to our National Anthem.

I believe most of our shipmates intuitively understand this, but a couple of members took the meaning of my message to be an assault on our "Creed." There is no "assault." There is no suggestion to change what you print on your newsletters or what is printed on the cover of the American Submariner or what you recite at your meetings.

As a point of interest, the word “Creed” is misused in this context. There was no mention of a creed in our founding documents, only a statement of Purpose. The word “Creed” first appeared in our Constitution many years after our founding. A “Creed” is a statement of belief, usually a religious belief. (Please refer to any handy dictionary)

If you were to take the first paragraph and substitute the following words you would see the difference which might lead to a better understanding of the situation. Begin the paragraph by placing; “Our belief is” and then put the words; “Our purpose is” and see which one makes the most sense to you.

Our Belief is “To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives in the pursuit of duties while serving their country. That their dedication, deeds and supreme sacrifice be a constant source of motivation toward greater accomplishments. Pledge loyalty and patriotism to the United States of America and its Constitution.”

Our Purpose is “To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives in the pursuit of duties while serving their country. That their dedication, deeds and supreme sacrifice be a constant source of motivation toward greater accomplishments. Pledge loyalty and patriotism to the United States of America and its Constitution.”

Strictly speaking, even though the word “Creed” is not properly used in this context, it is close enough for our intent and changing it would serve no useful purpose.

The bottom line here is that my only intention was to bring all three paragraphs to your attention and I firmly believe that the second and third paragraphs strongly serve to support and describe our “Purpose/Creed” in a substantial, supportive, and positive manner.

I welcome your comments on this and all other matters concerning USSVI. You can reach me at nc@ussvi.org or call me at (951) 795-4315 (Toll Free)

Best,
Michael

T Michael Bircumshaw - National Commander 2010-2012

Reference: USSVI Constitution
ARTICLE III – PURPOSE/CREED
Section 1:
STATEMENT of Purpose/Creed.
To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives in the pursuit of their duties while serving their country. That their dedication, deeds, and supreme sacrifice be a constant source of motivation toward greater accomplishments. Pledge loyalty and patriotism to the United States of America and its Constitution. (C-01-08)

Section 2:
In addition to perpetuating the memory of departed shipmates, we shall provide a way for all Submariners to gather for the mutual benefit and enjoyment. Our common heritage as Submariners shall be Strengthened by camaraderie. We support a strong U.S. Submarine Force.

Section 3:
The organization will engage in various projects and deeds that will bring about the perpetual remembrance of those shipmates who have given the supreme sacrifice. The organization will also endeavor to educate all third parties it comes in contact with about the services our submarine brothers performed and how their sacrifices made possible the freedom and lifestyle we enjoy today.