By Mass
Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller, Navy Office of Community
Outreach
Photo by Senior
Chief Petty Officer Gary Ward
YOKOSUKA, Japan- A 2008 Prospect
High School graduate and San Jose, California native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard USS Blue Ridge.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Anthony Ortega is a gunner's mate aboard the forward-deployed amphibious command
ship operating out of Yokosuka, Japan.
As a Navy gunner's mate, Ortega is responsible for maintaining
the ship’s weapons and explosives. He works with 25 mm guns and small arms such
as 9 mm pistols, M16 rifles and shotguns. He also trains and supervises
personnel in the handling and stowage of associated gunnery equipment.
“Growing up I learned the importance of working hard and
focusing on doing your job," said Ortega. "Having respect for
others and being open minded helps me day to day. I strive to keep learning and
exploring.”
With more than 50 percent
of the world's shipping tonnage and a third of the world's crude oil passing
through the region, the United States has historic and enduring interests in
this part of the world.
"Our alliance is rooted in shared
interests and shared values," said Adm. Harry Harris, Commander, U.S. Pacific Command. "It's not hyperbole to say that the entire world has benefited
from the U.S.-Japan alliance. While our alliance helped stabilize the region
after the Second World War, it also enabled the Japanese people to bring about
an era of unprecedented economic growth. And for the last six decades, our
Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen have worked side by side
with the Japan Self Defense Force to protect and advance peace and
freedom."
USS Blue Ridge serves as
the flagship for the U.S. Seventh Fleet. It is one of only two U.S. Navy
command ships in the world, providing command and control for fleet commanders.
Forward-deployed sailors are
crucial to the success of the global Navy mission and earn high praise from
their leaders.
“Being forward-deployed in Japan is amazing," said Ortega. "There are a
lot of things to see and do. I also appreciate the scenery and culture. After
three years here, I’m still enjoying the different experiences available.”
Sailors serving abroad in
Japan are highly motivated and quickly adapt to changing conditions, explained
Navy officials.
“The Navy allows me to see different countries and travel
the world," added Ortega. "It’s a great experience. Education is also important to me and knowing that I have that opportunity to grow in my
career is reassuring.”
Sailors
play a vital role in the overall military mission around the world.
"The U.S.-Japan alliance remains
the cornerstone for peace and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region,"
said Harris.