MILLINGTON, Tenn. – An Atlantic City, New Jersey, native is serving at Joint Typhoon Warning Center in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
Petty Officer 1st Class Terrell Grantwaters joined the Navy seven years ago. Today, Grantwaters serves as an aerographer's mate.
Aerographer's mates are the Navy’s expert in meteorology and oceanography. They use skills in science and math to calculate weather patterns, analyze data and distribute forecasts to ships and squadrons around the world, providing accurate measures of air pressure, temperature, wind speed and sea state.
"We support safety of navigation and flight by forecasting the weather and aiding in the exploitation of the environment for tactical advantage," said Grantwaters.
Naval Oceanography encompasses a wide range of missions crucial to supporting today's Naval fleet. They include oceanography, hydrography, meteorology, climate science, geospatial information science, astrometry, Earth orientation and precise time.
Whether operating in the air, at sea or underwater, Navy equipment, people and decision-making all rely on the technical and tactical advice of Navy Meteorology and Oceanography (METOC) Officers.
The Naval Meteorology and Oceanography directs and oversees more than 2,500 globally-distributed military and civilian personnel who collect, process and exploit environmental information to assist Fleet and Joint Commanders in all warfare areas to make better decisions faster than the adversary.
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers. Grantwaters has many achievements to be proud of.
“I am proud to have achieved three warfare devices,” said Grantwaters. “I’m also proud to have completed Aerographer’s Mate “C” School, been promoted to a first class petty officer, and been awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Metal.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Grantwaters, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“As a first class petty officer, I aim to guide my junior sailors to reach their goals,” added Grantwaters.