November 6, 2018

Long before Mike Shatynski was a two-star Rear Admiral in the Navy, he was on the Loyola football team that went 0-9 his freshman year to 9-0 as a senior. The experience was so positive that he now volunteers with the current football team. We spoke to Mike about Loyola, his career, continued service and his Veterans Day plans.

Why is it important to you to volunteer with the football team?

Playing football at Loyola was one of the most formative experiences in my life. We learned that we could succeed, but only as a team. We were small, but quick and smart, and we played with our whole hearts. The stands were filled with fellow students who cheered as if the game depended on it…and it did!  I am involved with Cub football because I want them to learn what they are truly capable of accomplishing within the extraordinary brotherhood of Cub football. I am part of the Loyola Gridiron Vanguard that supports the Loyola football program by teaching SEAL training and much more.

How did Loyola prepare you for the US Naval Academy?

While at Loyola, I learned what it really meant to serve selflessly. Our teachers, especially the Jesuits, lived it. We learned it from each other in the classroom, on the sports fields and during extracurricular activities. Being A Man for and with Others in a school of like-minded men was crucial for me not to just choose service, but to succeed in service.   

What was your position in the Navy?

I served as a Surface Warfare Officer aboard the biggest Navy battleships and smallest Coastal Riverine boats, both on active duty and in the reserves. When I was selected for Admiral, my title was Deputy Commander, Navy Surface Forces. My job could be described as the human resources director for a multi-billion-dollar corporation with 65,000 employees and 185 offices worldwide, meaning I took care of sailors aboard Surface Navy ships deployed around the world.        

How will you celebrate Veterans Day?

Now that I’m retired, I spend a lot time with veterans in vet-related nonprofits. I serve as Chairman of the Board for the Battleship IOWA Museum in the Port of Los Angeles, soon to be the National Museum of the Surface Navy. Over Veterans Day weekend, I’ll attend events aboard to formally thank veterans and their families. I’ll also visit employers who support our museum to thank them for supporting veterans.

What fond memories do you have of Loyola?         

I remember the Reverend Gordon Bennett, SJ ’64’s smile! Whether it was during a learning moment or the aftermath of conduct-deserving “JUG,” he always shared his loving smile. He and the other Jesuits showed me that one man can make a difference.