By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MILLINGTON, Tenn. – A Concordia, Missouri, native is serving at Joint Typhoon Warning Center in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
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.
"I'm a geophysical technician that directly assists the Typhoon Duty Officer (TDO) in preparing, creating, distributing and providing quality control on all products," said Rankin. "I produce hand-analyzed surface streamline charts for the area of responsibility (AOR) and collect surface observations to assist the TDOs in the development of their tropical forecasts. Additionally, I contribute to the morning meteorological control (METCON) by briefing the commanding officer, JT Director, and JTOPS in the surface streamline."
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.
"I do believe my individual work impacts positively in this command," said Rankin. "I'm always willing to learn and continue to train. I preform to the best of my ability and it has only had good feedback. My co-workers can trust me and I can trust them to get the job done for our mission."
Though there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Rankin is most proud of advancing in rank to petty officer third class.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Rankin, 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.
"Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine," added Rankin.