BATH, Maine – A 2005 Kearney High School graduate and Kearney, Missouri native is serving as part of the Pre Commissioning Unit for the future Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116).
As a sonar technician, Lear is responsible for Supervising the process of searching, classifying, and prosecuting submarine contacts. He also trains service members in anti-terrorism tactics.
“I really enjoy training my junior sailors in mastering their craft as well as helping them grow personally. Leading is important to me,” said Lear.
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.”
Lear has carried lessons learned from his hometown into his military service.
“During my day-to-day job as a leader in the Navy, I’m able to apply many lessons I learned growing up,” said Lear.
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.
Lear’s proudest accomplishment is receiving the enlisted surface warfare specialist qualification.
“There was a lot of studying and training that took almost five months, and getting the pin gave me a great sense of accomplishment,” said Lear
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, Lear and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.
“It is an honor to serve my country personally,” said Lear. "Serving in the Navy is an amazing experience with the ability to travel the world and create lifelong friendships."
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.