By Kayla Good, Navy Office of Community Outreach
SAN DIEGO – A 2011 Brick Memorial High School
graduate and Brick, New Jersey native is serving in the U.S.
Navy aboard the guided missile destroyer, USS Milius.
Fireman Robert Zuback is a
gas turbine systems technician (electrical) aboard the Arleigh
Burke-class guided missile destroyer operating out of San Diego, California.
A Navy gas turbine systems
technician is
responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the electrical
systems associated with four general electric gas turbine engines and auxiliary systems associated with that equipment.
“This job has given me the opportunity to travel,” said
Zuback. “I have been able to go to the Middle East and Spain. I like to see new
places and experiences the cultures. It has made me a worldly person and I have
learned a lot.”
Commissioned in November of 1996, Milius measures approximately
500 feet and is powered by four gas turbines that allow the destroyer to
achieve over 30 mph in open seas. Destroyers are tactical multi-mission surface
combatants capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare and
anti-surface warfare, as well as humanitarian assistance. Fast, maneuverable,
and technically advanced, destroyers provide the required warfighting expertise
and operational flexibility to execute any tasking overseas.
“Leading Milius sailors is
exceptionally rewarding because they genuinely care for one another as people,”
said Cmdr. Gil Ayan, commanding officer of USS Milius. “They want to see one
another succeed and each of them works toward that collective goal. As a
commanding officer, you can’t ask for a better culture than that.”
With a crew of over 300 sailors, jobs
are highly specialized and keep each part of the destroyer running smoothly,
according to Navy officials. The jobs range from washing dishes
and preparing meals to maintaining engines and handling weaponry.
“The best part about this ship is the crew,” said
Zuback. “Everyone on this ship is pretty close. Through all the demanding
situations we go through, you will still see a smile on your shipmates’ face.
Without the crew, it's just a ship.”
Challenging living conditions build strong fellowship among
the crew, Navy officials explained. The crew is highly motivated, and quickly
adapt to changing conditions. It is a busy life of specialized work, watches,
and drills.
“Serving in the Navy means to give up a lot of things and
serve for a greater purpose,” added Zuback. “You learn a lot about yourself
when you serve. You learn that there are bigger things in this world than
yourself. It is humbling to realize that in today's society.”