Paul G. Gaffney, II
President's Panel for Ocean Exploration Oral History Project
In the second half of 2020, Joanne Flanders conducted a series of Oral History interviews on behalf of the NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research (OER) around the topic of ocean exploration, with the objectives of providing interviews to the NOAA Voices Oral History Archives and initiating a collection on the topic. OER is also interested in using elements of the interviews in its own outreach and education products, including those created to inspire the next generation of explorers. Five ocean explorers participated including several members of the President's Panel for Ocean Exploration, a group whose recommendations led to the creation of OER 20-years ago. In the future, additional interviews will be conducted by OER, and possibly by other NOAA programs as well who are involved with the topic
On September 9, 2020, Joanne Flanders interviewed Vice Admiral Paul G. Gaffney II (USN, Ret.) via Zoom for a retrospective oral history. Gaffney reflects on his early life in Attleboro, Massachusetts, his family's Irish-American and German heritage, and his formative experiences, including his interest in oceanography sparked by summers on Martha’s Vineyard. He discusses his education, notably his decision to attend the United States Naval Academy, where he balanced rigorous academics and Division I athletics, and the pivotal moments that influenced his military career trajectory, including a near-fatal injury. Gaffney chronicles his diverse naval career, from Vietnam-era hydrographic surveys to his tenure as Commander of Naval Meteorology and Oceanography, emphasizing his leadership in oceanography, Arctic research, and international collaborations, such as the creation of a joint US-Russia Arctic Atlas. He details his contributions to advancing ocean exploration policy and technology, advocating for closer NOAA-Navy partnerships and prioritizing exploration within the US Exclusive Economic Zone. The interview highlights Gaffney’s role in national defense, environmental science, and maritime policy, offering insights into his influence on ocean exploration and the integration of scientific research with strategic military initiatives.
Please Note: The oral histories in this collection are protected by copyright and have been created for educational, research and personal use as described by the Fair Use Doctrine in the U.S. Copyright law. Please reach out Voices@noaa.gov to let us know how these interviews are being used in your research, project, exhibit, etc. The Voices staff can help provide other useful resources related to your inquiry.
The NOAA mission is to understand and predict changes in climate, weather, oceans, and coasts, to share that knowledge and information with others, and to conserve and manage coastal and marine ecosystems and resources. The Voices Oral History Archives offers public access to a wide range of accounts, including historical materials that are products of their particular times, and may contain offensive language or negative stereotypes.
Voices Oral History Archives does not verify the accuracy of materials submitted to us. The opinions expressed in the interviews are those of the interviewee only. The interviews here have been made available to the public only after the interviewer has confirmed that they have obtained consent.