By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
NORFOLK – A 2003 Kirby High School graduate and Memphis,
Tennessee native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the amphibious assault
ship, USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Lt. Moises Gonzalez 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
the junior sailors aboard the ship on the daily operations to complete the
mission.
“My job gives me the opportunity to meet new people from
diverse backgrounds,” said Gonzalez.
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.
“My time aboard this ship is unique because I meet just
about every sailor onboard and that is rare for a ship of this size,” said
Gonzalez.
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, Gonzalez and other Bataan sailors know they are part of a legacy that
will be last beyond their lifetimes.
“Since joining the military, I have learned that you can
pretty much overcome any obstacles,” said Gonzalez. “Perseverance and hard
work has been instilled in me throughout my life experiences."