SAN DIEGO – Fireman Jonathan Mason, a native of Parkersburg, West Virginia, joined the Navy to get some valuable training.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jackson Brown |
“I wanted to do something I could use when I get out,” said Mason. “Develop some trade skills so I could make a living in the civilian world.”
Now, one year later, Mason serves aboard one of the Navy’s amphibious ships at Naval Base San Diego.
Mason, a 2018 graduate of Parkersburg High School, is a machinist's mate aboard Essex, one of four Wasp-class amphibious assault ships in the Navy, homeported in San Diego.
“I work in the engineering department," said Mason. "We maintain the boiler and evaporator and make sure the ship is running good.”
Now, one year later, Mason serves aboard one of the Navy’s amphibious ships at Naval Base San Diego.
Mason, a 2018 graduate of Parkersburg High School, is a machinist's mate aboard Essex, one of four Wasp-class amphibious assault ships in the Navy, homeported in San Diego.
“I work in the engineering department," said Mason. "We maintain the boiler and evaporator and make sure the ship is running good.”
Mason credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in Parkersburg.
“I learned the importance of patience and responsibility for sure," said Mason. "Maturity was also a big one. Holding yourself to a certain standard definitely helps in the Navy.”
Essex is designed to deliver U.S. Marines and their equipment where they are needed to support a variety of missions ranging from amphibious assaults to humanitarian relief efforts. Designed to be versatile, the ship has the option of simultaneously using helicopters, Harrier jets, and Landing Craft Air Cushioned (LCAC), as well as conventional landing craft and assault vehicles in various combinations.
Because of their inherent capabilities, these ships have been and will continue to be called upon to support humanitarian and other contingency missions on short notice.
Sailors' jobs are highly varied aboard Essex. More than 1,000 men and women make up the ship's crew, which keeps all parts of the ship running smoothly, from handling weaponry to maintaining the engines. An additional 1,200 Marines can be embarked.
Serving in the Navy means Mason is part of a world that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
America is a maritime nation, and the nation’s prosperity is tied to the ability to operate freely on the world’s oceans. More than 70 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered by water; 80 percent of the world’s population lives close to a coast; and 90 percent of all global trade by volume travels by sea.
“Our priorities center on people, capabilities and processes, and will be achieved by our focus on speed, value, results and partnerships,” said Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer. “Readiness, lethality and modernization are the requirements driving these priorities.”
Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, Mason is most proud of getting a high promotion recommendation on his first evaluation.
“I made a good impression on my chain of command,” said Mason.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Mason and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes contributing to the Navy the nation needs.
“Serving in the Navy means protecting the people that I love and cherish back home," said Mason. "It's not the only reason I joined, but it's a big part.”