By Mr. Dusty Good
Photos by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tom Gagnier
NORFOLK – A 2009 Robert E. Lee High School graduate and San Antonio, Texas, native is serving in the U.S. Navy with Assault Craft Unit FOUR (ACU 4), one of the Navy’s most advanced amphibious warfare units.
A Navy gas turbine systems technician is responsible for maintenance and operation of gas turbine engines on ships.
“My job is very hands-on,” said Clarke. "You stay busy and it's a very rewarding job to complete something and see it working."
ACU 4 is one of the components of Naval Beach Group TWO (NBG 2).
Commissioned in 1948, just after World War II, NBG 2 trains and equips military forces for deployment overseas. Sailors with NBG 2 serve a vital role in the Navy our nation needs by ensuring that amphibious operations remain ready to defend and protect America at all times.
ACU 4 operates landing craft, air cushion (LCAC) vehicles, which are specialized to transport personnel and equipment from surface ships to shore. The LCAC is a high-speed, over-the-beach craft capable of carrying a payload of more than 60 tons. The LCAC can be used to transport weapons systems, cargo and personnel of Marine assault units. Air cushion technology allows the vehicle to reach more than 70 percent of the world’s coastline, while only 15 percent of that coastline is accessible by conventional landing craft, according to Navy officials.
The exercises and real-world operations that ACU 4 sailors participate in include evacuation of American citizens from a hostile territory, delivery of food and medical supplies after a natural disaster, and many other tasks that involve movement from ships off-shore to the beach, according to Navy officials.
“I like the working hours at this command,” said Clarke. "We aren't like a regular sea command and always going underway so it helps you not feel trapped."
Jobs are highly specialized and keep each part of the command running smoothly, according to Navy officials. The jobs range from operating boats to maintaining engines.
"ACU 4 sailors and craft are the connector and where the rubber meets the sand between the Amphibious Ready Group and the fight,” said Capt. Erik Nilsson, ACU 4’s commanding officer. “The maintenance team is dedicated to ensuring the craft are ready at a moment's notice to engage in missions from high-end combat to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.”
Though there are many ways for a sailor to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, Clarke is most proud of being promoted to second class petty officer.
“Making second class allowed me to continue my military service,” said Clarke.
While serving in the Navy may present many challenges, Clarke said she has found many great rewards in her service.
“I had a chief that told me 'don't let anyone tell you you can't do it,’” said Clarke. "Every time since then, when someone tells me something isn't possible I've been able to do it."