By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Robert Zahn, Navy Office of Community Outreach
YOKOSUKA, Japan- A Georgetown, Guyana, native and 2011 Annandale Secondary High School, Georgetown, is serving in the U.S. Navy forward-deployed aboard USS Blue Ridge.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Fabyion Newton is a boatswain's mate aboard the ship operating out of Yokosuka, Japan. The ship routinely deploys to protect alliances, enhance partnerships, and be ready to respond if a natural disaster occurs in the region.
A Navy boatswain's mate maintains and preserves the exterior surfaces of the ship, handles deck machinery and equipment, and takes part in various evolutions such as search and rescue and underway replenishment.
Newton is proud to serve in the Pacific and fondly recalls memories of Guyana.
“I learned from my relatives that no matter what comes your way, always remember where you came from,” said Newton. “I learned to stay open-minded and listen to people and learn from them.”
Moments like that makes it worth serving around the world ready at all times to defend America’s interests. 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. The Navy's presence in Yokosuka is part of that long-standing commitment, explained Navy officials.
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.
“It’s challenging to work through the language barrier, but I enjoy the friendly Japanese culture,” said Newton.
Newton is also proud of his growth in his Navy career. He has made rank as well as received two enlisted warfare qualifications aboard the ship. Getting promoted and becoming dual qualified has given him the opportunity to do more and help other shipmates to achieve their goals.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied-upon assets, Newton and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.
"I feel like I’ve become a role model for my family and the Navy has benefited us in many ways,” said Newton. “My favorite thing about serving in the Navy is that I get to see and learn from different cultures. I also get to represent my native country as well and along with the United States.”
Seventh Fleet, which is celebrating its 75th year in 2018, spans more than 124 million square kilometers, stretching from the International Date Line to the India/Pakistan border; and from the Kuril Islands in the North to the Antarctic in the South. Seventh Fleet's area of operation encompasses 36 maritime countries and 50 percent of the world’s population with between 50-70 U.S. ships and submarines, 140 aircraft, and approximately 20,000 Sailors in the 7th Fleet.