BATH, Maine – A 2008 Kenton High School graduate and Kenton, Ohio native is serving as part of the Pre Commissioning Unit for the future Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116).
As a ship's servicemen, Richards is responsible for services on the ship provided to the crew including vending machines, ship store, barber shop and laundry.
“What I enjoy most about my job is being able to help other sailors out when they need it,” said Richards.
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.”
Richards has carried lessons learned from his hometown into his military service.
“Growing up I learned to always be respectful and lend a helping hand when others need it,” said Richards. "My parents taught me that hard work will always pay off, and the outcome is always better."
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.
Richards has military ties with family members who have previously served and is honored to carry on the family tradition.
“Both my grandfathers served as well as my older brother,” said Richards. "The all had an influence on my decision to join the Navy."
His proudest accomplishment is having his brother, an officer in the Navy, swear him in during his reenlistment. He’s also glad that he persevered through three deployments overseas in the fifth fleet.
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, Richards and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.
“It's an honor to represent my family's name and continue the legacy,” said Richards. "It also gives me a great sense of satisfaction to be part of something bigger then myself."
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.