By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
NORFOLK – A 1997 Marian Military Institute High School
graduate and Hoover, Alabama native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the
amphibious assault ship, USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Chief Paul Johnson is a firecontrolman aboard the Wasp-class
amphibious assault ship operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.
A Navy firecontrolman is responsible for the functionality
of the electonics system and management of the people that work with them.
“I like that in my job I am able to work with electronics,”
said Johnson. “I also like working with sailors and making sure they learn to
do things the right way.”
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 working with the crew,” said Johnson. “It is a
challenge working with these older systems so I learn a lot more working with
the old school electronics.”
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, Johnson and other Bataan sailors know they are part of a legacy that
will be last beyond their lifetimes.
“Since joining the Navy I have definitely learned to work
with a diverse group of people,” said Johnson. “I have also learned the concept
of doing the right thing when no one is watching. The Navy has given me the
ideals of honor, courage and commitment that I can use in my personal life as
well.”