Former Commanding Officer Honored Aboard USS Roosevelt

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A 21-gun salute and “Taps” were performed to honor Capt. Matthew E. Bobola, retired, during a “Burial at Sea” ceremony aboard USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), November 14.

Bobola was the commissioning commanding officer when the Arieigh Burke-Class destroyer first joined the fleet on October 14, 2000. Being buried by the ship was Bobola’s final wish. According to Charles Bobola, Roosevelt held a special place in his father’s heart.

“My father was very proud to be the first commanding officer of the USS Roosevelt,” he said. “He was very adamant that this would be the best ship in the fleet. He wanted to make sure the ship started up right.”

During his 30-year Navy career Bobola served as Chief of Staff, Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group, and Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, Section Head for the Director, Surface Warfare Division (N86) and Director of Staff, commander, US Naval Forces, Europe. He dedicated many years for his country and with this he left an ever lasting legacy for many Sailors to follow.

“Captain Bobola’s legacy was that his crew trusted him, they loved him because he loved his crew,” said Cmdr. Todd Manus, retired. “I feel privileged to have the opportunity to have known Matt. My children and his grew up together, he was my best friend.”

Bobola lost his battle with cancer on September 7, and is survived by his wife Suzanne and three children, Matthew, Charles and Valerie. In addition he left an everlasting impression of honor and respect to all those who served under his command.

“Captain Bobola was a very generous, kind and a proud man,” said Roosevelt’s pre commissioning executive officer Cmdr. Larry Datko, retired. “He was a great role model for my children and all Sailors under his command. He was a great American.”

Press Release, November 18, 2013; Image: Wikimedia