By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
NORFOLK – A 2002 Wheeling High School graduate and Arlington
Heights, Illinois native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the amphibious assault
ship, USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Petty Officer 1st Class Timothy Kelly is an aviation
machinist's mate aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship operating out of
Norfolk, Virginia.
A Navy aviation machinist's mate is responsible for
deconstruction and construction of aircraft engines, as well as the maintenance
of the associated support equipment
“My job allows me to influence and mentor junior sailors in
their Naval career and get them on the road to success,” said Kelly.
Commissioned in 1997, the Wasp-class amphibious assault
ship, USS Bataan, is 844 feet long. The ship is named in honor of the defense
of the Bataan Peninsula during World War II and is the second ship to bear the
name.
Bataan, one of the largest of all amphibious warfare ships,
resembles a small aircraft carrier. It is equipped with a mix of helicopters
and attack aircraft, launchers and machine guns and an extensive medical
facility with 600 hospital beds.
“I have the best job in the entire
world,” says Capt. J.C. Carter, commanding officer of the USS Bataan. “Everyday, I get to work the best young
Americans that our country has to offer!
They have endured long deployments and they have engaged the enemy
successfully! It is an honor to serve
alongside the next greatest generation!”
Approximately 70 officers and 1000 enlisted men and women
make up the ship's company. Their jobs are highly specialized and keep each
part of the amphibious assault ship running smoothly. The jobs range from
washing dishes and preparing meals to maintaining engines and handling
weaponry.
“The best part of serving in the Navy is being able to serve
in, arguably, the most diverse organization in the world while interacting
with the most diverse group of people," said Kelly. "It's also great to be able to travel the world."
Although it is difficult for most people to imagine living
on a ship, the challenging living conditions build strong fellowship among the
crew. The crew is highly motivated, and quickly adapt to changing conditions.
It is a busy life of specialized work, watches, and drills.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon
assets, Kelly and other Bataan sailors know they are part of a legacy that will
be last beyond their lifetimes.
“The Navy has taught me an infinite amount of things,” added Kelly. “Not only have I learned how to stay true to the Navy core values of honor, courage and commitment while sharpening my impeccable work ethic, but I
have built relationships and networks that will benefit me for a lifetime.”