By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
NORFOLK – A 2010 Biloxi High School graduate and
Biloxi, Mississippi native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the amphibious
assault ship, USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Petty Officer 3rd Class Erik Lopez is a machinist's mate
aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship operating out of Norfolk,
Virginia.
A Navy machinist's mate is responsible for keeping the lights
on, the water hot, and the ship moving forward.
“I like doing what I do,” said Lopez. “I like working in the
pit because I’m good with my hands and am able to do a lot of mechanics.”
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.
“I like my crew on this ship,” said Lopez. “There is not a
day that I walk down the p-way that I don't see one of my friends.”
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, Lopez and other Bataan sailors know they are part of a legacy that will
be last beyond their lifetimes.
“I have gotten a lot better with time management and leadership
since joining the Navy,” said Lopez. “I have also gained crucial knowledge
that I can apply to the civilian side.”