By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
BATH, Maine – A 1974 Schenck High School graduate and Midway, Maine, native plays a key role in supporting the next generation of U.S. Navy destroyers.
Virginia Simmons works as a financial management analyst for the Department of Defense supporting future guided-missile destroyers with Supervisor of Shipbuilding (SUPSHIP) Bath, Maine.
“I use the funds that are granted to our command by Congress and the President to pay Bath Iron Works to build and outfit ships for the Navy,” said Simmons. “I ensure that funds are spent properly per regulation requirements, and I am always mindful that these ships meet the necessary specifications so our military can defend this country against those who would cause us harm.”
U.S. Navy sailors and government civilians oversee the design and construction of the newest ships joining the fleet. Once these ships get underway, SUPSHIP Bath employees also oversee the post shakedown availabilities to ensure all systems are ready to support the Navy the nation needs.
Arleigh Burke class destroyers are equipped with the Navy’s Aegis Combat System, the world’s foremost integrated naval weapon system, according to Navy officials. These ships are capable of linking radars from across an area of operations to provide a comprehensive picture, effectively increasing the battle space. This capability is designed to provide the Navy with a fighting edge.
Zumwalt class destroyers have advanced technologies in every area – engines, power systems, weapons systems, shipboard electronics and sensors -- making it one of the world’s most capable ships, Navy officials explained. When at sea, the Zumwalt class will perform a variety of missions, including attacking targets on land with gunfire and cruise missiles, hunting and tracking submarines, airspace surveillance and supporting special operations forces, like Navy SEALS.
"Our sailors and civilians play a key role in our mission to oversee the construction of Navy ships on our waterfronts," said Capt. Joseph Tuite, SUPSHIP Bath commanding officer. "They are an integral part of our team that ensures the Navy receives high-quality, affordable and capable war ships."
Simmons served in the Navy for four years as an aviation storekeeper and has ties with family members who previously served in the military and is honored to carry on the family tradition.
“My father was in the Army during WWII,” said Simmons. “My brother was in the Navy during the Vietnam era and my husband deployed to numerous locations around the world while serving in the Navy for 20 years.”
Simmons’ proudest accomplishment is graduating with an associates degree in the judicial and legal secretarial field, receiving a certificate in medical transcription and learning American sign language.
“I’ve learned enough sign language to have a conversation with a friend, co-worker, granddaughter, and son and daughter-in-law,” added Simmons.
Being a supporting member for the Navy’s newest ships, Simmons and other members know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.
“Being from a small town made me wonder what this country and world could offer,” said Simmons. “I made the decision to join the Navy and I am proud to have served my country. It was a wonderful door opener for me to build on when it was time to get back into the military workforce.”