TOP CHARACTER STRENGTHS

HUMILITY - SPIRITUALITY - TEAMWORK

CAPT Vincent “Vinnie” Segars was one of the finest examples of a Naval Aviator. He met me right after starting flight school at NASC at NAS Pensacola. After getting his Wings or Gold, he flew many missions in the mighty EP-3 Orion. Much hard work and servant-leadership brought one of our favorite tours-Commanding Officer of VPU-2 Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. The positive influence, leadership, and mentorship he had for his sailors was unsurpassed. Vince exemplified Honor, Courage and Commitment. He always valued and truly cared about everyone in his command, from the lowest rank to the highest. One of his outstanding character traits was being a servant-leader. I witnessed on a daily basis the incredible gift Vince had for putting people at ease and leading with much humility. There were many wonderful tours, medals and awards for a naval career well-done. But the one that touches me the most is our last tour, here, at NASC. Vince loved to fly and he was a very well-seasoned Naval Aviator. We received our dream orders to come back to Pensacola for his last tour. Nothing could have prepared us for the tragedy that would strike our command on Dec. 6, 2019. My husband’s leadership was truly put to its final test during this time. I have never seen such an example of faith, compassion, determination and unwavering steadfastness. It was during this time that I saw my husband was a true Navy Hero. My realization would only be forever etched on June 10, 2020. Vince was delivering info for a new program that was to start for pilot training -the NIFE program. His plane had engine failure and crashed in a field near Sardis, AL on his way home to Pensacola. My husband and his colleague, CDR Joshua Fuller, were both tragically killed. Vince was just short of retiring with 30 years in the Navy. His love for his God, country, Navy and Naval Aviation will never be forgotten.

Character Strength Story:

Every year, no matter the location, Vince would travel to be with his sailors on Christmas and Thanksgiving. He spent multiple holidays in places as far off as Afghanistan and Iraq.

-Submitted by Alisa, Surviving Wife