By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
NORFOLK – A 2011 Amos Alonzo Stagg High School graduate and
Stockton, California native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the amphibious
assault ship, USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Petty Officer 3rd Class Andrew Cha is an information
technician aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship operating out of
Norfolk, Virginia.
A Navy information systems technician is responsible for maintaining
communication aboard the ship
“I like that my job is hands on,” said Cha. “The equipment
is very technical and I like working on it."
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.
“I like the crew here aboard this ship,” said Cha. “We are a
tight-knit family here which makes the job that much more enjoyable.”
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, Cha and other Bataan sailors know they are part of a legacy that will
be last beyond their lifetimes.
“I am more mature and financially stable since joining the
Navy,” said Cha. “I have grown a lot since I was back home.”