I was in the Navy 2-3 years ago as a NSF, and I will admit that
drinking is a culture. I served onboard a ship that is catered for
NSmen training and often when we sail overseas, the NSMen will
drink, although never in open view of my SQN officers.
When our ship reaches other countries, and we will stay there for 3
days, often the NSMen will drink to their hearts' contents. But in
the end, they know their limits. I sure think that Navy don't
encourage drinking, but its a well-known fact that Navy personnel
sure can drink. I am an exception, because I don't like drinking,
as I hate the feeling of throwing out and having a bad hangover. My
officers will encourage me 2 join them at times, but they do not
FORCE me to go drink with them. And even if I do join them, I only
drink 1 bottle or glass of Carlsberg or Tiger Beer because I know I
can't. Seriously, its up to the individual to decide if he wants 2
drink or not. If you don't want, no one can force u.
Its unfair to say that the Navy supports and encourage alcholism.
Some officers do that because they see it as a way to bond with
their men, and know them better. Often out at sea, everyone is busy
with their positions, and seldom do the whole crew get a chance 2
get together. Drinking is one of the way to bond, but whether is it
the right way to bond depends on how you see it.
I am sorry that you had this bad experience, but to say the Navy
encourage a drinking culture is just wrong. Like I said, its all
about self-control, and if u are the strong or weak-willed type. No
one can force u to do things u don't like.
