By Navy Office of
Community Outreach
SAN DIEGO – A 2013 Central High School graduate
and Springfield, Massachusetts native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the
guided missile destroyer, USS Milius.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Shanique Rodriguez is a gas turbine systems technician (mechanical) aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer operating out of San
Diego, California.
A Navy gas turbine systems technician is responsible for maintaining
propulsion equipment for the ship.
“I enjoy the people and learning about the ship,”
said Rodriguez.
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
like most about serving aboard this ship is the
people and how they make the days go by better,” said Rodriguez. “I also get to learn a lot of new things.”
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 gives me better opportunity, a way
to meet newpeople, and a lifetime full of experiences,” added Rodriguez.