John Rainey, Class of 1972
1972-1994
Midshipman Experience
Coming off the rugby pitch is CAPT John Rainey - a Palo Alto, California native, former member of 7th company, and a Class of 1972 graduate. As a P-3 Pilot, he completed a 22-year career during which he served in various billets including T-34C Instructor Pilot at NAS Pensacola, and multiple command positions of aviation and reservist units.
The History Major
During his time as a 7th Company Mustang, CAPT Rainey focused on U.S. History with a thesis on the Underground Railroad in Maryland. During his studies at the Naval Academy, CAPT Rainey recalls developing and honing academic skills that later correlated to his postgraduate studies. He notes that having the ability to organize and present one’s thoughts is one of the most valuable skills in both officership and academia. These skills are practiced extensively as a History Major and they translate favorably in one’s military career and further education.
CAPT Rainey recalls an episode in his career that highlights how these skills served him especially well. As a Training Support Officer at NAS Pensacola, his superb engagement, empathy, and organization resulted in his enlisted personnel receiving the greatest number of meritorious awards of any department. Furthermore, as a Commanding Officer in the Naval Reserve, four of his department heads were selected to be Executive Officers. His education in the humanities helped him exemplify what it means to be a true naval officer by properly supporting, enabling, and recognizing his Sailors.
Sage Advice
When asked what midshipmen should prioritize, CAPT Rainey recommends that they learn how to become a true servant-leader, and to develop empathy: “Try to understand what your enlisted personnel and students are experiencing and how you can better help them get the job done.” He urges midshipmen to take advantage of as many opportunities within the History Department as possible, further enabling their understanding of historical context and perspective as a whole.