By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MILLINGTON, Tenn. - A Bradley, Illinois, native is serving aboard USS Essex, a U.S. Navy Wasp class amphibious assault ship.
Petty Officer 1st Class Craig Richert is a 2009 graduate of Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School and 2020 American Military University gradaute. Today, Richert serves as a Navy aviation boatswain's mate (handling) responsible for moving aircraft on naval warships and preparing aircraft for flight operations and firefighting training across multiple platforms.
Richert joined the Navy over nine years ago for a better strucure in life and to support a family in the future.
According to Richert, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Bradley.
"I learned to treat people the way you want to be treated with respect, no matter who they are," said Richert.
Homeported in San Diego, California, USS Essex is the second ship in the Wasp-class of multipurpose amphibious assault ships and the fifth ship named for Essex County, Massachusetts. Essex was a 1000-ton ironclad river gunboat of the U.S. Army and later U.S. Navy during the American Civil War.
According to Navy officials, amphibious assault ships are designed to deliver U.S. Marines and their equipment where they are needed to support a variety of missions ranging from amphibious assaults to humanitarian relief efforts. Designed to be versatile, the ship has the option of simultaneously using helicopters, Harrier jets, and Landing Craft Air Cushioned, as well as conventional landing craft and assault vehicles in various combinations.
"What I enjoy most being at this command, is being able to work with peers and junior sailors on relating naval experiences and mentoring those who seek guidance," said Richert.
Though there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Richert is most proud of becoming a husband and a father.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Richert, 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.
"Service to your country is not just a punch line," added Richert. "It's living and working in a culture of people who decided that they wanted to dedicate their lives to something bigger. You can make experiences, memories, and see places in your career that you may never have thought were possible."