By Kayla Good, Navy Office of Community Outreach
SAN DIEGO – A 2006 Lakota West High School
graduate and Cincinnati native
is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided missile destroyer, USS Milius.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Matthew Reid is an electronics technician
aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer operating out of San
Diego, California.
A Navy electronics technician is responsible for the upkeep
and maintenance of navigation equipment.
“This job doesn't get stale,” said Reid. “There is
always different things that can happen and that you have to adapt to.”
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.
“I like this ship because all of my friends here,” said
Reid. “There is a good sense of morale aboard the 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 a voluntary sacrifice to do
your part for the country,” added Reid.