Fred “Spike” Schau takes his re-enlistment oath in a ceremony aboard the USS Hornet on Feb. 8. The Oakley resident had been out of the service for several years after serving 16 years in the Navy. It took the 49-year-old Schau four years of wrangling to gain his re-enlistment – persistence that paid off last month. The event was attended by hundreds of his fellow Patriot Guard Riders, members of other veteran motorcycle groups, appreciative veterans to whom Schau and his comrades have provided welcome-home escorts, and other friends and family. Schau voiced his pride and love for those who attended the event, as well as numerous renditions of his signature cry of “Go Navy, baby!” Bsn. Mate 2 Schau will serve as a cargo handler at the Alameda Naval Station.