MILLINGTON, Tenn. – A Garden City, Kansas, native is currently serving aboard USS Carl Vinson with U.S. Navy strike fighter squadron (VFA) 113 which flies one of the world’s most advanced warplanes.
Logistics specialists provide diverse logistics and accounting support in a global setting to aviation, surface, subsurface and expeditionary forces; order, receive, inspect, stow, preserve, package, ship and issue materials and cargo; operate Navy post offices; account for government materials; and prepare and maintain required forms, records, correspondence, reports and files.
Morales joined the Navy four years ago to for the opportunities the military provides.
"I joined the Navy because I wanted to go to college while being able to take care of my family,” said Morales.
USS Carl Vinson, homeported in San Diego, California, is named for Carl Vinson, a Congressman from Georgia, in recognition of his contributions to the U.S. Navy. The ship was launched in 1980 and undertook her maiden voyage in 1983.
According to Navy officials, USS Carl Vinson, the U.S. Navy's third Nimitz-class supercarrier, is one of only 11 operational aircraft carriers in the Navy today. Sailors’ jobs are highly varied aboard USS Carl Vinson. Approximately 3,000 men and women make up the ship’s company, and they keep all parts of the aircraft carrier running. They do everything from preparing meals to handling weaponry and maintaining the nuclear reactors. Another 2,000 sailors comprise the air wing, the people who fly and maintain the aircraft aboard the ship.
Nimitz-class aircraft carriers support and operate aircraft that engage in attacks on airborne, afloat and ashore targets that threaten free use of the sea and engage in sustained power projection operations in support of U.S. and coalition forces.
Members of VFA 113 work with the F/A 18E Super Hornet, one of the most advanced aircraft in the world. The Super Hornet takes off from and lands on Navy aircraft carriers at sea and is capable of conducting air-to-air combat as well as striking targets on land. It is approximately 61 feet long, has a loaded weight of 51,000 lbs., and a max speed of 1,190 miles per hour.
Operating from sea aboard aircraft carriers such as USS Carl Vinson, the Super Hornet gives the Navy the power to protect America’s interests anywhere, at any time. The versatile jet has the ability to destroy targets located hundreds of miles inland, without the need to get another country’s permission to operate within its borders.
Morales believes the same lessons and skills developed in Garden City contribute to a successful naval career.
“Growing up in Garden City helped me with being able to connect with people,” said Morales. “When you are used to the closeness of a small town a ships size seems normal.”
Though there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Morales is most proud receiving an award.
“My proudest naval accomplishment so far was on my first deployment I received a letter of commendation. said Morales.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Morales, 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.
“The Navy represents an opportunity to help people personally and professionally,” added Morales. “Serving in the Navy allows me to show my sisters that hard work pays off,”