Sailor away on navy deployment weeks after wedding

The HMCS Charlottetown is off on an eight-month deployment Monday, and Leading Seaman Doug Williams will be aboard, just a few weeks after getting married on P.E.I.

"She knew what was happening when we got into it. She's in the navy as well," said Williams of his new bride, Amanda.

Williams grew up in Ebenezer, P.E.I., started his sailing career in the reserves. As a university student, he found that the call to the sea was taking over his life.

"I enjoyed the sailing more than going to university, so I kept up with the navy and went full time and I've been in it ever since," he told CBC Island Morning host Matt Rainnie.

"I get to see the world and help people, which I want to do."

'Do the best I can'

The eight-month deployment on the HMCS Charlottetown will be his longest time at sea yet, and as much as he enjoys the time at sea, his fellow crew members, and the job, he knows he will miss home.

"I'm going to feel sad about it obviously. I'm not going to be home, I'm not going to be with her," he said.

"It's part of the job."

Williams' job on the Charlottetown will involve operating the small boats on board, taking care of small arms, along with taking some watches on the bridge. His goal for the mission is simple.

"To go over, do a good job, do the best I can," he said.

"Make P.E.I. proud."

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