Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
BATH, Maine – A 2011 Newton Conover High School graduate and Newton, North Carolina, native is serving as part of the Pre Commissioning Unit for the future Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116).
As a cryptologic technician (collection) Knopp is responsible for analyzing intelligence data.
“I like the idea that I'll be able to travel when the ship gets commissioned,” said Knopp. "There will also be a lot of training opportunities that will be offered to me."
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.”
Knopp has carried lessons learned from his hometown into his military service.
“Don't settle for anything less than what you think you deserve,” said Knopp. “You can achieve what you set your mind to achieving.”
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.
Knopp has military ties with family members who have previously served and is honored to carry on the family tradition.
“My father was in the Air Force. My wife serves in the Navy as a cryptologic technician also,” said Knopp.
Knopp’s proudest accomplishment was receiving a master's degree in emergency services management.
“The Navy afforded me the opportunity to further my education,” added Knopp.
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, Knopp and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.
“The Navy provides me with many ways to better myself while helping others at the same time,” said Knopp.
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.