ARABIAN SEA- Petty Officer 3rd Class Shawn Caluya, a native of Stockton, California, a 2008 Bear Creek High School graduate and 2011 San Joaquin Delta College, recently celebrated his surface warfare insignia pinning aboard the guided missile destroyer, USS James E. Williams. The pin is earned by sailors who are trained and qualified to perform duties aboard surface this. James E. Williams is currently on deployment in the Persian Gulf.
"Growing up in Stockton, California, taught me a lot and definitely made me who I am today, said Caluya. "Stockton is one of the most diverse cities in the United States, so being able to treat everyone equally and with respect was not going to be that hard of a transition into the Navy lifestyle. We all come from different walks of life and are expected to gel and mesh together on a ship to complete whatever mission is handed to us."
"I am responsible for being the technical expert in fighting casualties onboard, and for training the crew on being able to fight any casualties in order to save the ship and our shipmates," said Caluya.
James E. Williams is the namesake of Chief Petty Officer James Elliott Williams, one of the Navy's most highly decorated enlisted sailors. Through his 20 years of service, Williams earned 18 awards including the Medal of Honor and Purple Heart (with two gold stars). The ship is currently deployed to the Atlantic Ocean and is capable of conducting Anti-Air Warfare, Anti-Submarine Warfare and Anti-Surface Warfare.
Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community and career, Caluya is most proud of earning his Surface Warfare pin.
For Caluya, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Caluya hopes to continue.
"I have two uncles that both served in the Navy," said Caluya. "I definitely feel honored to carry the tradition on the other side of the family. Plus it’s pretty great that I was the only grandkid in the family to join the military."
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Caluya, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
Caluya joined the Navy two years ago to travel the world, experience new cultures and make his family proud. Now, Caluya is serving as a damage controlman aboard James E. Williams.
"Not everyone on board has it, and it took a lot of time, effort and dedication to earn this award," explained Caluya.
"Serving in the Navy does bring a huge sense of pride that I am doing what I do not just for myself, but for the country as well," Caluya added.