Photo By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jesse Hawthorne
PEARL HARBOR – A Etna, Ohio, native and 2007 Watkins Memorial High School graduate is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided missile destroyer, USS John Paul Jones.
Petty Officer 1st Class Anthony Brown is a damage controlman aboard the guided-missile destroyer operating out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
A Navy damage controlman is responsible for doing the work necessary for damage control, ship stability, firefighting, fire prevention, and chemical, biological and radiological (CBR) warfare defense.
“I have learned that patience, work ethic, and the fact I grew up in a military family helped me in my transition to the Navy,” said Brown. “I already knew what was coming.”
More than 300 sailors serve aboard the ship, and their jobs are highly specialized, requiring dedication and skill, according to Navy officials. The jobs range from maintaining engines to handling weaponry along with a multitude of other assignment that keep the ship mission-ready at all times.
Fast, maneuverable, and technically advanced, destroyers provide credible combat power, at and from the sea.
"Our sailors in Pearl Harbor are doing an excellent job at warfighting and supporting the warfighter," said Cmdr. Hurd, chief staff officer, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. "Historically, Pearl Harbor is a symbolic base of sacrifice and resiliency. Today, on every Navy ship and shore facility's flag pole, the First Navy Jack, 'Don't Tread on Me,' flies reminding sailors to move forward and build on the history and legacy of this country and the U.S. Navy."
Navy guided-missile destroyers are multi-mission ships that can operate independently or as part of a larger group of ships at sea, Navy officials explained. They are equipped with tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns and a phalanx close-in weapons system.
Challenging living conditions build strong fellowship among the crew. The crew is motivated, and can quickly adapt to changing conditions. It is a busy life of specialized work, watches and drills. Serving aboard a guided-missile destroyer instills accountability and toughness and fosters initiative and integrity.
Serving in the Navy is a continuing tradition of military service for Brown, who has military ties with family members who have previously served. Brown is honored to carry on that family tradition.
“My dad was very influential in my decision to join the military. He was in the Army for 26 years, and his input made the military an option for me,” said Brown.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied-upon assets, Brown and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.
“Representing my country, fighting for our freedoms, and stability for my family is what makes serving important to me,” added Brown.