Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
BATH, Maine – A 2014 Chula Vista High School graduate and San Diego, California, native is serving as part of the Pre-Commissioning Unit for the future Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116).
Petty Officer 2nd Class Joey Cepedamamba is a fire controlman assigned to DDG 116 in Bath, Maine.
As a fire controlman Cepedamamba is responsible for maintaining and operating the weapon control systems.
“It's really chaotic because of the everyday maintenance and dealing with crypto on all levels,” said Cepedamamba. “While underway, it is difficult for communications from ship to shore commands due to inclement weather.”
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.”
Cepedamamba has carried lessons learned from his hometown into his military service.
“My dad was strict and demanding, which taught me good respect and discipline,” said Cepedamamba. “I took this with me into the Navy and it has worked well because being in the military is the same structure that I grew up with.”
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.
Cepedamamba has military ties with family members who have previously served and is honored to carry on the family tradition.
“My cousin is currently serving six years in the Marines as drill instructor,” said Cepedamamba. “It’s great to carry on the family name.”
Cepedamamba’s proudest accomplishment was making petty officer second class.
“It is my greatest accomplishment because it gives me an opportunity to lead and mentor junior sailors within my division,” added Cepedamamba.
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, Cepedamamba and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.
“The Navy has helped me learn from people with different demographics and backgrounds,” said Cepedamamba. “It’s taught me to overcome obstacles in stressful situations. I would have stayed in the same area after high school but I’m glad I decided to join because I can excel in a career while pursing my educational goals.”
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.