Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Senior Chief Gary Ward
NORFOLK, Va. – A 2014 Woodbridge High School graduate and Alexandria, Virginia, native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason.
Navy Seaman Rosanna Curiel is a boatswain's mate aboard the warship, based in Norfolk, Virginia. USS Mason is named after Secretary of the Navy John Young Mason and Distinguished Flying Cross Recipient Ensign Newton Henry Mason. A Navy boatswain's mate is responsible for maintaining the upkeep of machinery and equipment inside and outside of the ship.
“I like working with my hands and being able to work outside,” Curiel said.
Curiel credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in Alexandria.
“Having to grow up in a military family taught me a lot about responsibility and respect,” Curiel said.
U.S. Navy sailors, like Curiel, are stationed both stateside and on the high seas aboard surface ships around the world. USS Mason is one of more than 60 ships on the east coast of the United States as part of Naval Surface Forces, U.S. Atlantic Fleet.
U.S. Navy ships are deployed globally, and their presence helps the Navy control the sea. Sea control is vital to project power, secure common areas, deter aggression and assure allies when and where desired.
Due to its extensive combat capability, the Mason is able to fire Tomahawk Cruise Missiles and other weapons as part of sustained combat operations against targets on and below the sea, in addition to hitting targets hundreds of miles over the land.
The ship is equipped with the Aegis Combat System, which integrates the ship’s electronic sensors and weapons systems to defend against anti-ship missile threats. The ship’s air search and fire control radar provides continuous search and tracking of hundreds targets simultaneously.
The crew of more than 300 sailors build a strong fellowship while working alongside each other. The sailors are highly motivated, and quickly adapt to changing conditions as part of a busy life of specialized work, watches and drills.
“There is a tight-knit family atmosphere here,” Cruel said. “I like the thought of being onboard a ship and having the opportunity in helping people out everyday.”
Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, Curiel is most proud of graduating as top student in her class attending a Navy training school.
“This made me feel proud because I accomplished a short-term goal and all my hard work paid off in the end,” Curiel said.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Curiel and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes, one that will provide a critical component of the Navy the nation needs.
“Serving in the Navy means helping people out,” Curel added. “It’s a good feeling to help those in need.”