By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
NORFOLK – A 2015 Bark River Harris High School graduate and Bark River, Michigan native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the
amphibious assault ship, USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Airman Hunter Messersmith is serving aboard the Wasp-class
amphibious assault ship operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.
As a Navy airman he is responsible for the maintenance and
directing of aircraft.
“My job is great,” said Messersmith. “There are a lot of
opportunities to use the skills I've learned here in the civilian world.”
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. “Every day, 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.
“Serving aboard this ship is a great experience,” said
Messersmith. “I have met a lot of great people.”
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, Messersmith and other Bataan sailors know they are part of a legacy
that will be last beyond their lifetimes.
“Since I joined the Navy, I have learned to communicate
better with people,” said Messersmith. “I also have better discipline and drive
to do things.”