From The PMO Desk: Retirement of Bob Novak, PMO Oakland California

Robert Luke, Editorial Supervisor, Mariners Weather Log

Normally, these pages are reserved for stories, anecdotes, or just interesting facts that have been occurring with our Port Meteorological Officers (PMOs). I usually ask (OK coerce) one of the PMOs to submit something worthy enough to share with the VOS family. This time, I took it upon myself as Editor to usurp their section for a much greater task. I need to say thanks and farewell to our Oakland PMO. Mr. Bob Novak retired on June 01 after 46 years of government service. WOW! After sacrificing for 20 years in the Navy, Bob joined the National Weather Service in 1979. After a relaxing four-year tour on Johnson Island then six more in Colorado Springs, CO; Bob became the Oakland PMO.

Since 1989, Bob has been the PMO at Oakland, California. During his career, he was a part of many changes to the organization. The dramatic improvement in the ability to provide timely forecasts, warnings, and advisories is directly related to dedicated employees such as Bob.

Bob Navak

Bob explains his gimbaled chronograph to the crowd.

Bob Navak

Ms. Elizabeth Morse, Meteorologist in Charge, National Weather Service Forecast Office Sacramento presents the VOS retirement plaque to Mr. Bob Novak.

Unlike many professions where the bottom line is measured in dollars, the success of the National Weather Service is measured in far more important units: human lives and property. Lives have been saved and disasters averted because dedicated individuals like Bob have served using their full energy, talents, and abilities. Bob’s contributions, particularly in the areas of recruiting and sustaining ships into the Voluntary Observation Program have been greatly appreciated, as observations are the building block of our forecast and warning program.

Again, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for a job well done. I wish you all the best in your retirement years.

Thank you for your guidance, corporate wisdom, and humor friend—Fair Winds and enjoy Yosemite.

Warmest regards,

Luke