By Navy Office of
Community Outreach
SAN DIEGO – A 2000 Don Lugo High School graduate
and Chino, California native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the
guided missile destroyer, USS Milius.
A Navy gunner's mate is responsible for small
arms instruction and launching the weapons.
“As the leading petty officer, I enjoy working with our
sailors,” said Lopez. “They bring a lot of different ideas, and their
recommendations help us to do something better.”
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.
“What I
really enjoy about serving aboard this ship is the
people, especially the other first class petty officers,” said Lopez. “We do a
lot of things together and help each other out.”
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.
“It’s an honor serving my country and protecting our
nation,” added Lopez.