Deputy Sheriff Allen Thomas Sharra

I served with Sharra (we all called one another by our last names in the military) on the USS Tripoli LPH0-10 from May '88 to May '90. When I reported to the ship, I was sent to mess cranking (service) duty in the galleys as many young sailors did before they reported to their divisions to begin the work for which they were trained. I was assigned, ultimately, to the night shift with Sharra in the bakery. It was long hard work and he kept me sane and on target for my eventual departure to my division. I enjoyed working with and getting to know him and revered him actually as a young aircraft mechanic when he finally transitioned to AIMD and was working on our Tiger aircraft. I didn't know he was Jewish .. and I know much more of their faith now as my current partner is Jewish. Was just something interesting I've learned of him in the interim years. I was stunned to learn of his death. I am only now beginning to get back in touch with some of guys from the V Divisions and discovered this from a close friend of his from the Tripoli. I served with a great group of guys in those days, and my memories of Sharra are some that haven't really faded .. from all those long nights I served with him .. and learning how to navigate active Navy service when you worked at night and were given little accommodation for rest during the day. A real challenge. He mentored me some .. for certain, and I appreciated it. The world suffered the loss of a great one back in '99. I hope all those whose lives he touched have found the strength to move forward and flourish. He was a resourceful and hard working guy and a friend. I wish I had kept in touch after I left active duty.

ABH3 Maduro (Ricardo Roberto Maduro)
Former service member friend from the USS Tripoli

December 27, 2023