By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
NORFOLK – A 2010 Centennial High School graduate and Las
Vegas native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the amphibious assault ship,
USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Ensign Keyawna Danai is a surface warfare officer aboard the
Wasp-class amphibious assault ship operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.
A Navy surface warfare officer is responsible for leading
and mentoring the sailors who manage the boiler room for propulsion.
“My job gives me fulfillment from seeing the hard work of
the sailors I lead and how they come together to complete the mission,” said Danai.
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.
“Serving on the ship is exciting because I am learning from
great leaders on how to do my job,” said Danai.
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, Danai 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 versatile," added Danai. "I am able to adapt
to any situation and give it my best effort."