Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
BATH, Maine – A 2008 Charles W. Baker High School graduate and Baldwinsville, New York, native is serving as part of the Pre Commissioning Unit for the future Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116).
As an electronics technician Werth is responsible for maintaining ship's radar systems, as well as communications and navigation equipment.
“I like the idea of networking with others in the electronics profession and working with people from around the world,” said Werth.
DDG 116 is currently undergoing tests and trials in preparation for delivery to the U.S. Navy from shipbuilder Bath Iron Works. Arleigh Burke class destroyers measure approximately 500 feet long and are powered by four gas turbines that allow the ship to achieve over 30 mph in open seas. Destroyers are tactical multi-mission surface combatants capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and ballistic missile defense, as well as humanitarian assistance. Fast, maneuverable, and technically advanced, destroyers provide the required warfighting expertise and operational flexibility to execute a variety of missions.
“Thomas J. Hudner Jr., a naval aviator who retired as a captain, received the Medal of Honor from President Harry S. Truman for displaying uncommon valor during an attack on his element leader, the first African American naval aviator to fly in combat, Ensign Jesse L. Brown,” said Cmdr. Nathan W. Scherry, commanding officer, PCU Thomas Hudner. “On 07 May 2012, Secretary Mabus announced that DDG 116 will be named in Captain Hudner's honor. Today, as the Navy's finest 300 Sailors crew the 66th Arleigh Burke Class Destroyer, they do so with a tremendous amount of honor, pride, and sense of duty. We are extremely honored to be able to carry Captain Hudner's values and legacy forward so that they are never forgotten. We are proud to be able to carry out our missions in defense of our country's freedom and values, and humbled to be part of the Hudner family.”
Werth has carried lessons learned from his hometown into his military service.
“There are so many things that are bigger than you out there in the world,” said Werth. "I learned to be humble, and find ways to better those around you, thus bettering yourself."
With a crew of over 300 sailors, each crew member’s job is important to the smooth operation of the ship. The jobs range from weapon handling to navigation.
Werth has military ties with family members who have previously served and is honored to carry on the family tradition.
“My father served in the Navy during Vietnam,” said Werth. "My grandfather served in the Navy during World War II."
Werth’s proudest accomplishments include enlisting and re-enlisting in the Navy.
“Being in the Navy, and continuing my service represent the pride I take in myself,” added Werth. "I feel that I can still learn and make an impact on the lives of others, both personally and professionally."
Close living conditions build strong fellowship among the crew, Navy officials explained. The crew is highly motivated, and quickly adapt to changing conditions. It is a busy life of specialized work, watches, and drills.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s newest ships, Werth and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.
“Serving means putting the needs of the nation before your own,” said Werth. "My job is to protect and defend our freedoms."
The construction of the ship is over 98% complete. The ship is scheduled for commissioning in late 2018 in Boston, Mass. For more information about the commissioning, visit http://www.usshudnerddg116.org.