By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
NORFOLK – A 2012 Central High School graduate
and Roaring Springs, Pennsylvania native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the
amphibious assault ship, USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Seaman Apprentice Zachariah Grabill is a mass communication
specialist aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship operating out of
Norfolk, Virginia.
A Navy mass communication specialist is responsible for photojournalism
for the Navy.
“I love my job,” said Grabill. “I like taking photos,
writing stories and interacting with people while telling the Navy story.”
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 people here on this ship,” said Grabill. “They
are super supportive, helpful and willing to mentor. It is a great command
climate.”
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, Grabill 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 the importance of
integrity and personal responsibility,” added Grabill. “I also really believe
that with hard work anything is obtainable.”