By Navy Office of
Community Outreach
SAN DIEGO – A 1987 Arthur Hill High School graduate
and Saginaw, Michigan native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the
guided missile destroyer, USS Milius.
William Houlihan is the command master chief aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile
destroyer operating out of San Diego, California.
“My responsibilities include a little bit of human
resources, a little bit of disciplinarian, and a lot of coaching,” said
Houlihan. “My primary job is making sure that every sailor on this ship reaches
their full personal and professional potential. Being around young people who love wearing a uniform
and take great pride in serving their country is what I like most about serving
aboard this ship."
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 don't think there's anything that could compare with
wearing a Navy uniform,” said Houlihan. “I completely grew up in the Navy. It's
a great honor to defend the country and to be put in a position to influence
young sailors while serving with people who have an equal commitment to one
another’s success.”
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.
“I have
been very fortunate to maintain a relationship with friends in my hometown,”
added Houlihan. “I may not get to visit as often as I like, but their influence,
and the influence of their parents, on me when I was younger shaped who I am
today.”