By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
NORFOLK – A 2007 Meadowview Christian School graduate and Selma, Alabama native is serving in the U.S.
Navy aboard the amphibious assault ship, USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Petty Officer 2nd Class
Rachel Qureshi
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 conducting maintenance and
operating weapons aboard the ship as well as training sailors on proper usage
of fire arms
“I love that my job gives me
the opportunity to play with guns,” said Qureshi. “I enjoy training myself and
other people to become better shooters.”
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 crew aboard this ship is
like a family,” said Qureshi. “It is comforting because I am far from home and
I have a second family aboard the ship.”
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, Qureshi 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 that I am more capable of doing things than I thought,” said
Qureshi. “I am more independent and confident.”