MILLINGTON, Tenn. - A Springville, Utah, native is serving aboard USS Essex, a U.S. Navy Wasp class amphibious assault ship.
Seaman Apprentice Brody Hickman joined the Navy one year ago for the opportunities serving provides.
“I joined the Navy to keep up the tradition, to see the world and to serve my country,” said Hickman.
Today, Hickman serves as a yeoman.
“My job is somewhere between human resources and secretary,” said Hickman. “I do the paperwork to make sure that we are able to accomplish our mission. I also make the awards that recognize sailors who put in hard work to keep our ship afloat. Another one of my responsibilities is assisting with transfers of sailors to new commands and any other administration type jobs you could think of.”
Hickman is a 2016 Landmark High School graduate. According to Hickman, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Springville.
"Living in Springville and attending Landmark High School taught me how to work with people and help others when they need it," said Hickman.
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.
"My favorite part of serving aboard USS Essex is being able to meet people from all walks of life," said Hickman. “I’ve had the opportunity to meet and serve with sailors from all over the world.”
Though there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Hickman is most proud of the opportunities to grow as a person.
“I'm proud that I've been given the chance of going above and beyond by getting qualifications outside of my line of work, such as being an Armed Watch Standard along with being a part of the visual information team,” said Hickman.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Hickman, 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.
"Serving in the Navy is definitely a sacrifice for the greater good," added Hickman. “Sometimes you have to sacrifice time with family and friends as the holidays and birthdays roll through, but at the end of the day it is the sacrifice that those in the armed forces make that allows everyone in the country to have those good times.”