Michael Harter

Michael Steven Harter’s journey in the military began in 1992, driven by a desire to leave his small hometown of Watertown, New York, located near Fort Drum. Feeling that his options were limited to working in a paper mill or leaving town, he made the decision to join the U.S. Navy. Inspired by his grandfather, a World War II Navy veteran, Michael chose the Navy’s Construction Battalion, known as the “Seabees,” a decision that would shape the next 20 years of his life. 

As a Builder First Class Petty Officer (BU1), Michael served with pride and enthusiasm, working alongside many great men and women who he considered more as peers than subordinates. Throughout his career, he was stationed in various locations, including Guam, Rota, Spain, Diego Garcia, and Camp David, Maryland. Each assignment brought its own challenges and rewards, but it was the camaraderie and teamwork that Michael cherished the most.

Among the influential figures in his life, Michael recalls a few BU1s (Builder First Class) who shaped his leadership style and guided his career: Mike Esposito, Jerry Baker, and George Free. These mentors not only taught him the technical aspects of his job but also helped him hone his leadership skills, fostering his development as a leader and mentor himself.

Michael’s military career was filled with diverse experiences, from helping in the aftermath of Typhoon Omar in Guam to serving at Camp David, where he held a Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information (TSSCI) clearance. His deployments took him across the globe, to over 50 countries, including notable locations such as Cairo, Egypt; Karachi, Pakistan; Haiti; Saudi Arabia; Dubai; Frankfurt, Germany; and Lima, Peru. He recalls riding a camel near the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt and visiting Machu Picchu in Peru, experiences that left a lasting impact on him.

One of the most poignant moments in Michael’s career came on September 11, 2001. He was scheduled to fly to St. Petersburg, Russia, that day, and while he never disclosed his exact flight time to his family, they knew he was supposed to travel. The events of 9/11 caused widespread fear and confusion, and when Michael finally reached his father by phone, he learned that his mother had been hysterical, fearing he might have been on one of the planes involved in the attacks. This phone call, filled with relief and emotion, marked the first time in many years that Michael and his father expressed their love for one another, a moment that he will never forget.

After retiring from the Navy in 2012, with 20 years and 20 days of service, Michael transitioned into civilian life. His first post-military job was with Eddie Bauer, working in an outlet store in Williamsburg, Virginia. While it was a fun experience, it wasn’t where he saw his long-term future. He later took a position with Construction Outfitters International, working on projects for a government agency. Although the work was demanding, with long hours and seven-day work weeks, it was a financially rewarding experience.

Michael eventually fully retired, along with his wife, and they settled in Clearwater, Florida, where they enjoy the vibrant community, attending hockey games, exploring local breweries, and soaking up everything Pinellas County has to offer. Despite being far from his roots in Watertown, Michael feels at home in Clearwater and has no plans to leave.

Looking back on his military career, Michael expresses deep gratitude for the opportunities the Navy provided him. The Navy Seabees gave him a sense of purpose, strong leadership, and lifelong friendships. His only minor regret is that, had he known about the Air Force’s similar Red Horse program, he might have chosen that path instead. Nevertheless, he wouldn’t change a thing about his time in the Navy and encourages young people considering the military to explore the Seabees if they are interested in construction work.

Michael’s life is a testament to the power of service, camaraderie, and seizing opportunities to grow and learn. He is proud of his military career and the positive impact it has had on his life. His message to future generations is simple but heartfelt: “God Bless America and God Bless the Armed Forces.”