By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Theodore Quintana, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
YOKOSUKA, Japan- A Lake Charles, Louisiana, native and 2014 Ocobee High School is serving in the U.S. Navy forward-deployed aboard USS Blue Ridge.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Elijawon Turner is a machinist'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 machinist's mate is responsible for operating and maintaining steam turbines and reduction gears used for ship propulsion and auxiliary machinery.
Turner is proud to serve in the Pacific and fondly recalls memories of Lake Charles.
“Respect was a big thing for me growing up and I carry the lessons of respect to my Navy career,” said Turner.
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.
“Being forward deployed is fun because I get to see the world and do things most people at home do not get the chance to do,” said Turner.
Turner is also proud of receiving the Blue Jacket of the Quarter award for the dedication shown to the ship’s mission.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied-upon assets, Turner and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.
"The Navy has given me a backbone and an opportunity to support myself and my family so they can go and do what they want,” said Turner.
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.