Don joined the Navy in 1986 and served 21 years, retiring in July 2007. During his service, he deployed 6 times, including 2 deployments to the Persian Gulf. He spent 17 years stationed aboard 4 different ships. These ships were USS Conyngham (DDG-17), USS Monterey (CG-61), USS Vicksburg (CG-69) and USS Carney (DDG-64). Rising through the ranks as a Gunner’s Mate, GMC(SW) Nichols specialized in 5” gun weapons systems, small arms instruction, and shipboard physical security. He earned several awards, including 2 Navy Commendation Medals, and 3 Navy Achievement Medals.