Hugh D. “Doug” Connell – 50th Reunion Essay

Hugh D. “Doug” Connell

141 May Apple Lane

Nellysford, VA 22958

doug.connell141@gmail.com

434-361-0279

Spouse(s): Kathryn Dodge Connell (1969)

Child(ren): son Aaron, daughter Elizabeth

Grandchild(ren): four grandchildren

Education: Yale (BA history) 1969, Naval War College (MA strategic studies), Salve Regina Univ (MA International relations)

National Service: Captain US Navy

Career: US Navy 1969-1997; WBB Consulting 1998-2013; Thos Jefferson Foundation 2013-2016

Avocations: fly fishing, skiing, Episcopal Church lay minister

College: Berkeley

A navy ROTC scholarship brought me to New Haven, and to a significant transition from Midwestern suburban public-school life to membership in a community of more rigorous effort, exciting opportunities, new connections and personal growth. I was eager to expand my horizons, aimed at an initial career in naval aviation but open to adventures in many other directions. I arrived at Yale with a strong Christian faith, but no clear plan on how to put it to work. Membership in DKE, eager participation in intercollegiate sports and varsity lacrosse provided diversions from academics but tools useful in later life.

The transition also provided an awakening with regard to public policy failures in serving many citizens. Michael Harrington’s The Other America (1962) developed a new conscience, and Alpha Phi Omega offered opportunity to examine inner city life close up, an experience which challenged many assumptions and experiences of my youth. It also pushed me in pursuit of an education which would equip me to help others. The specific area of endeavor emerged years later, but began with the military obligation required by my scholarship.

Summer midshipman training sharpened by interest in aviation, which offered an exciting new job after graduation, and a way to provide a public service in a way not attractive to many of my classmates as the Vietnam conflict ground on. I was fortunate to become a better fighter pilot than a Yale student or college midfielder. Almost before I realized it, I had embraced a 28-year active-duty career.

An incredibly busy two weeks in 1969 included graduation, commissioning, marriage to Kathryn Dodge, a move to Pensacola and the beginning of navy flight school. I never could have found a more generous friend or loving partner, one who shared my faith and commitment to service in ways which enrich our retirement. A daughter, a son and four grandchildren came along next. Our son developed multiple sclerosis in his early 30s. Helping him deal with this pernicious disease became a necessary but rewarding focus of our retirement, and a source of pleasure as we observe his courage and determination.

Naval aviation provided great satisfactions, despite long family separations, the loss of many friends and long nights questioning the taking of human life, whether by my own hands or in response to orders given to others. Leading by empowering others and by living my faith while doing so served me well.

A second career in a consulting business with the Department of the Navy provided a comfortable executive opportunity and additional opportunity to help others navigate through operational and technical challenges. It was a good fit for 13 years.

I remain committed to merging faith and conflict in ways that help others. The final chapters of time and change have been focused on Episcopal church parish leadership and charity work, efforts shared with Kathryn, and by mentoring the grandkids through their own paths.