By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
NORFOLK – A 2014 Northwood High School graduate
and Pittsboro, North Carolina native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the amphibious
assault ship, USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Seaman Matthew Strong is a gunner's mate aboard the
Wasp-class amphibious assault ship operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.
A Navy gunner's mate is responsible for maintaining the ship's
weapons systems and training.
“I like that there is a lot of camaraderie in my
department,” said Strong. “It is also pretty awesome teaching people how to shoot
because I like working with weapons.”
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 that serving aboard this ship allows me to meet all
types of new people,” said Strong. “I like that I am able to travel the world
and perhaps become someone's hero.”
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, Strong and other Bataan sailors know they are part of a legacy that
will be last beyond their lifetimes.
“The Navy has taught me a lot of responsibility,” said
Strong. “I have also matured a lot faster since joining.”