After graduating from Maine Maritime Academy in 1957, Richard K. Reese went with Isthmian Line aboard the Steel Scientist as Junior 3rd Mate on west-bound round the world run. He stayed with Isthmian until 1966. During that time, he served aboard the Steel Scientist, Traveler, Executive, King, Navigator, and Voyager, holding the rank of 3rd Mate up to and including Chief Mate. Dick continued going to sea until retirement in 1986, working for many of the major shipping companies.

Dick has written a book about his experiences on the old 12-passenger boom ships, which were the end of an era. It isn't yet published, but the title is Oh Mr. Mate, Oh Mr. Mate (Please Put Me on the 4-8).