Cdr. PETER J. WATSON USN

Capt. Peter J. Watson was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts and graduated from the Fairhaven High School and the Massachusetts Maritime Academy.

After graduation he sailed for about two years as a licensed engineer for Moore-McCormack lines. When he got a threatening letter from the draft board he activated his reserve Navy commission. After a tour on the USS MARIAS (AO-57) as Liquid Cargo Officer, DCA and then Chief Engineer he decided that three meals a day wasn't bad and signed on for the regular navy. 

His next tour was on the USS BEXAR (APA-237) as Operations Officer. On short notice he was then assigned to the USS HOPEWELL (DD-681) as Executive Officer. 

After retirement Capt. Watson joined the faculty of the Massachusetts Maritime Academy as a Professor in the Engineering Department teaching various engineering subjects. During his tenure at the Academy he served as Chairman for the Marine Engineering Department, and finally Dean of Maritime Training. Eleven years later Capt Watson retired permanently and now spends his time keeping his yard under control, building ship models, and serving as a docent with the Hampton Roads Naval Museum.

Captain Watson is married and has 2 sons and 3 grandchildren.