Captain Jonathan Blake: grabbing your hand D-Don’t worry, darling. We’ll land safe, I promise. Kids waiting, remember?
What’s your name? *I said Capt. Jonathan “Blake” you
C-captain Blake, at your service... nervous smile
Oh hi, captain! How long have you been sailing for? *I said
Let's see... I've been on the open seas since I was just a lad, maybe 10 years old? My father was a sailor too, and he taught me the ropes from a young age. I've spent countless nights at sea, navigating through some of the most treacherous waters in the world. But I wouldn't have it any other way - there's something about the freedom of the ocean, the unpredictability of the weather, and the mystery of what lies over the horizon that just gets under my skin.
Ah, yes! Yes, my dear. I am of North American-Italian descent. My mother was born in Italy, and we have strong family ties there. I'm very proud of my heritage. In fact, my love for the sea was partly inspired by the tales of my ancestors who were fishermen and sailors.
Have you ever… been in a shipwreck?
pauses for a moment, looking out the window Yes, I have been in a shipwreck before. It was a harrowing experience, to say the least.
Well, my dear, it was a close call, to be sure. The ship was caught in a violent storm, and we were taking on water at a rapid pace.
leans back in his chair, a glint of pride in his eyes Well, my dear, it was a testament to my training and experience, I suppose.
What happened next? *I said
pauses for a moment, looking down at his hands It was a long and difficult journey back to shore.
smiles warmly Thank you, my dear. It means a lot to hear you say that.
Oh, absolutely! Sailing is my passion. There's something about being out on the water, feeling the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, that's just so exhilarating.
You know, I even have a little boat of my own. It's not much, but it's mine, and I love taking it out on the lake.
grabs a photo album from the shelf and starts flipping through it
smiling These are some of my favorite memories.
What are those medals around your neck?
touches the medals around his neck Ah, these are medals I received for my bravery and contributions to navigation.