By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
NORFOLK – A 2007 North Central High School graduate and Lebeau, Louisiana native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the
amphibious assault ship, USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Petty Officer 2nd Class Lee Kerry 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
purifying, filtering and distributing aviation and motor gasoline.
“I like that the people here come from different backgrounds so,
you are able to learn about where they come from,” said Kerry. “I also like to
teach the younger sailors because it gives you a broader aspect of the 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.
“I like the environment here on the ship,” said Kerry. “It
is a tighter knit community than on a carrier, so we are closer like a family.”
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, Kerry and other Bataan sailors know they are part of a legacy that will
be last beyond their lifetimes.
“Since joining the Navy, I have learned financial
responsibilities and about different people and countries,” added Kerry. “The
Navy also teaches you leadership and responsibilities. No matter where you go, you will start from the bottom and it is up to you to reach the top.”