By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
NORFOLK – A 2008 East Chicago Central High School graduate
and East Chicago, Indiana native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the
amphibious assault ship, USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Airman Lionel Nunn is an aviation boatswain's mate (fuel)
aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship operating out of Norfolk,
Virginia.
A Navy aviation boatswain's mate is responsible
for fueling aircraft and upkeep of the fueling systems aboard the ship.
“My job allows me to enter the aircraft to fuel it and I get
excitement from that,” said Nunn.
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 crew aboard this ship is amazing,” said Nunn. “The
people here look out for you and make it feel like home.”
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, Nunn and other Bataan sailors know they are part of a legacy that will
be last beyond their lifetimes.
“The Navy has taught me to be more humble,” added Nunn. “I
also learned how to turn the other cheek to situations that upset me while
being able to separate my work from my personal life.”