By Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class Bryan Niegel, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MILLINGTON, Tenn. - Fireman Gage Foreman, a native of Rock Falls, Illinois, serving with Assault Craft Unit Five.
Foreman joined the Navy two years ago to follow in family members footsteps.
“I joined the Navy for many reasons,” said Foreman. “One of the reasons was to pay homage to my grandfather who was also in the Navy and another is to start a career debt free at a young age.”
Today, Foreman serves as a hull maintenance technician.
“My rate in civilian terms is a combination of many jobs,” said Foreman. “A plumber, welder and fire fighter all combine would best describe the hull technician rating.”
Growing up in Rock Falls, Foreman attended Rock Falls Township High School and graduated in 2019. Today, Foreman uses the same skills and values learned in Rock Falls to succeed in the military.
“A lesson I learned in my hometown that helped me succeed in the Navy is that the more effort you put into your work, the more it will show and pay off,” said Foreman. “If you put forward less effort, you will reap fewer rewards.”
Assault Craft Unit Five provide fully manned, trained, well-maintained and properly supported Landing Craft Air Cushion detachments in support of high-speed ship-to-shore movement of weapons systems, equipment, cargo, and personnel.
The Landing Craft Air Cushion is a high-speed, over-the-beach fully amphibious landing craft, capable of carrying a 60-75 ton payload. It is used to transport the weapons systems, equipment, cargo and personnel of the assault elements of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force from ship to shore and across the beach.
ACU-5 is based out of Camp Pendleton, California, and is assigned to Naval Beach Group One.
Serving in the Navy means Foreman is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
While there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Foreman is most proud of being recognized.
“I am most proud of being recognized as the weekly sailor in the spotlight onboard USS Portland and my Bluejacket of the Quarter nomination I am currently awaiting results for,” said Foreman.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Foreman, 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.
“My love for serving in the navy grows more each day,” said Foreman. “I would never be able to live this life and experience the things I do without it. I feel great honor putting on my uniform each morning representing the us military and our Navy.