I’m Lieutenant Commander Walter Lombard.
Well—I was. I’m retired now, so these days I’m just Walter.

I spent most of my life in the Navy. The details changed over the years, but the work always came down to service, precision, and protecting the people who matter.

Charleston has been home for over three decades. It’s where I live with my wife, Anne, and where we raised our daughters—Bethany, Megan, Natalie, and Claire. Being their father has been the joy of my life. Watching them become who they are now is something I’m proud of every day.

I’ve always had an ear for languages. I speak several—some better than others—and I’ve found there’s a kind of grace in meeting people in their own words. It’s a small way of showing respect.

In my free time, I build model ships. Quiet work. Steady hands. It helps.

I don’t know how I’ll be remembered. I just hope the people I love know they were loved, through the mistakes, not despite them.

That’s what I’d like to last.