By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
NORFOLK – A 2013 Federal Way High School graduate and
Seattle native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the amphibious assault ship,
USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Airman Caleb Villegas is an aviation boatswain’s mate aboard
the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.
A Navy aviation boatswain’s mate is responsible for the
safety of the aircraft and personnel on the flight deck as well as directing
and storage of the aircraft.
“My job is exciting because I get work so close to these
powerful aircrafts,” said Villegas.
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.
“The camaraderie that I have with my shipmates is what I
enjoy the most about serving aboard this ship,” said Villegas. “We work well
together and have each others' backs.”
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, Villegas 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 to work hard,” added Villegas. “I have become more responsible and have a better sense of time
management.”