Niagra Falls, N.Y. native serving aboard U.S. Navy destroyer

By Petty Officer 3rd Class Abigail Rader, Navy Public Affairs Support Element

SAN DIEGO – A 2004 Lewiston-Porter High School graduate and Niagra Falls, New York native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided missile destroyer, USS Milius.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Sarah Bellreng is a fire controlman aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer operating out of San Diego, California.

As a Navy fire controlman she is the combat systems maintenance manager assistant responsible for making the maintenance plan, and assisting in overseeing the combat systems baseline.

“I love interacting with the civilian and military counterparts at this job,” said Bellreng. “I always get to learn many new things as we go through this availability.”

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 believe we have a good chain of command,” said Bellreng. “They really look out for their sailors and will help us achieve our goals.”

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 that I'm lucky enough to serve in an organization,” added Bellreng. “Not everybody can serve in the Navy or military, and I'm very lucky to have that opportunity.”