Robert John Crowley, District #10, is Choctaw Nation’s Veteran of the Month.
Crowley was born in Atoka, Okla., and graduated from high school there. He attended the University of Oklahoma, pursuing a degree in Architecture, before enlisting in the Navy in September 1989.
After completing basic training in Orlando, Florida, his duty stations were in Great Lakes, Illinois, and San Diego, California. He was deployed during Desert Storm aboard the non-combat ship USS McKee, a floating repair and supply ship for submarines, and served as an electronics technician performing mainframe and computer repair and operating IFF (Identify Friend or Foe) systems.
He was returned to the submarine base in San Diego, where he specialized in repairing antenna systems, periscope, and radar for Los Angeles-class submarines. Crowley also served as a member of the Security Reaction Force, firefighting, and base shooting teams.
ET-3 Crowley was honorably discharged in September 1994. His commendations include the National Defense Service Medal, Expert Rifle (.45 Caliber) and Expert (.38 Caliber) awards, the Navy “E” Ribbon, and Good Conduct Medal.
He recalls his time aboard the USS McKee as a pivotal time when he gained extensive knowledge in pneumatics and mechanical systems. Repairing submarines was a significant aspect of his duties. He fondly remembers the camaraderie shared with fellow service members. He expresses immense pride in having served his country and remains grateful for the opportunity to do so.
After returning from military service, he worked in technical support roles with peripheral equipment providers. He later became a contractor for the EPA in Ada, Oklahoma. Through technological initiatives with the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations, he delivered services and opportunities to Native Americans. He is semi-retired and operates his own business, Crowley’s Market, in Ada, Oklahoma.
He and his wife, Cyndie, of 22 years, have three daughters, Carleigh, Maci, and Charlee.
The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma holds our Veterans in the highest esteem and appreciates their sacrifices and contributions to preserve our freedoms and the way of life we hold dear.