Carrier Sailor shares 'gift to the world' through art - Around the Fleet

All Hands, March, 2003 by Jeff Williams

It may be difficult for some people to serve in the military and find time to pursue their passion, but one Sailor aboard America's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier has found a way to mesh the two.

Aviation Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class (AW) William Tanner of USS Kitty Hawk's (CV 63) air department has aspired to become a professional artist since he was in the fourth grade. Things didn't go as he had planned, so now he uses his talent to contribute to the institution that he has proudly served for eight years.

"I always had the ability to draw and paint, and I just knew that I would do that for a living," Tanner said. "When that didn't happen, I thought I had failed. But as I matured, I realized that I was meant to share my talent in another way."

Tanner was given his first opportunity to display his artwork when he was stationed aboard USS Independence (CV 62). He was asked to paint Navy themes and slogans on doors and walls throughout his department's spaces.

"My senior chief at the time always saw me drawing in my free time and asked me if I would like to paint something for everyone to see. I jumped at the opportunity."

That was in 1996, and since then, Tanner has painted the "Don't Tread on Me" theme in the flag passageway aboard independence and most of the murals displayed around base at "Hawk's" forward-deployed operating location of Yokosuka, Japan.

When people walk in Club Alliance near the entrance to Fleet Activities Yokosuka, they can't help but notice the artwork that covers almost every wall. According to Tanner, that's probably what most people associate him with.

"I'm proud of the work I did at the 'A Club'? It's something that gives the building life, and it's an honor to know that my God-given talent made that possible," said Tanner.

Tanner added he has been presented with several opportunities to pursue a career in the art world, but he's quite content with having the best of both worlds.

"I know for a fact I could get out and make a living using my gift, but I'm dedicated to completing my naval career. I enjoy the fact that I can continue to serve my country and have the opportunity to express myself through art. I wouldn't change a thing."

Yokosuka's Morale, Welfare and Recreation department is responsible for providing Tanner with the opportunity to paint and airbrush different buildings around the base. He enjoys sharing his gift, he said, but doesn't charge a fee for his talents. He started his own business where he offers custom sketches and air brushings.

"Art is my passion and my hobby, and it's great to be able to earn money providing a service for others. On top of that, I enjoy doing it. I get paid to be productive during my off time. It's great!"

Tanner draws his inspiration from his mom who was also an artist. He once thought he had failed his mom because he was not a world-renowned artist, but he has since changed his thoughts on that topic.

"I'm responsible for some art on Hawk and most of the art on base. People from all over will see what I've done, and that's how I've shared my gift with the world."

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COPYRIGHT 2003 U.S. Navy

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