AA in the Armed Forces part 1AA in the Armed Forces part 1
Recovery Radio Network
Major William K
54:24•14 Dec 2009
Breaking the Waves: AA's Role in Navy Alcohol Recovery
Episode Overview
- Captain Joseph A. Perch shares his journey from Yugoslavia to becoming a key figure in Navy alcohol recovery.
- The Navy's evolving approach to treating alcoholism as a disease.
- The importance and impact of AA meetings on naval bases.
- Challenges and humorous anecdotes from early AA days in the Navy.
- The power of community support in helping sailors achieve sobriety.
“As you all know, heavy drinking among seafaring men is as old as probably the sailing tradition itself”
In this episode of Recovery Radio Network, Major William K introduces Captain Joseph A. Perch, a prominent figure in the U.S. Navy's fight against alcoholism. Captain Perch shares his unique journey from Yugoslavia to the U.S., where he became the chief of the Alcoholics Rehabilitation Service at the Naval Regional Medical Center in Long Beach, California. He recounts his experiences treating alcoholics, highlighting the Navy's evolving approach to alcoholism as a disease rather than a disciplinary issue.
Captain Perch also discusses the importance of AA meetings on naval bases and how they have helped countless sailors find sobriety. His story is both humorous and touching, as he recalls the early days of AA in the Navy and the challenges they faced. You'll hear about the dedicated individuals who supported these sailors, offering their homes and time to help them recover.
This episode is a testament to the power of community and the transformative impact of AA in the armed forces. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in addiction recovery and the role of support networks in overcoming alcoholism.

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