By Megan Brown, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MILLINGTON, Tenn. – A Billerica, Massachusetts, native is serving aboard USS Iwo Jima, a U.S. Navy Wasp class amphibious assault ship.
Airman Peter Katamani is a 2015 Billerica Memorial High School graduate. Katamani is responsible for handling aircraft.
Katamani joined the Navy two years ago for the opportunities serving provides.
"I joined the Navy to travel the world and to help with college," said Katamani.
According to Katamani, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Billerica.
"Growing up in my hometown made it easy for me to work with people from different backgrounds all over the world," said Katamani. "The Navy is integrated, just like my hometown."
Iwo Jima is the seventh Wasp-class amphibious assault ship and the second ship in the U.S. Navy to bear that name. The ship was named for the Battle of Iwo Jima of World War II.
According to Navy officials, amphibious assault ships are 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, as well as conventional landing craft and assault vehicles in various combinations.
Katamani favorite part of serving in the Navy is discipline.
"Also, the sense of belonging to something bigger than myself," added Katamani.
Though there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Katamani is most proud of being apart of the mission that rescued over 100,000 people from Afgansitan.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Katamani, 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.
"Serving in the Navy means a lot to me," added Katamani. "It made me more open and accepting to let people into my inner circle."