Lake St. Louis native serves aboard USS Iwo Jima

By Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class Bryan Niegel, Navy Office of Community Outreach

MILLINGTON, Tenn. – A Lake St. Louis, Missouri, native is serving aboard USS Iwo Jima, a U.S. Navy Wasp class amphibious assault ship.

Chief Petty Officer Brenna Hickey is a 2000 Wentzville High School graduate. Today Hickey serves as a logistics specialist.

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.

Hickey joined the Navy 11 year ago for the opportunities the Navy offers.

"I joined the Navy to be a part of something bigger and to see the world," said Hickey.

According to Hickey, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Lake St. Louis.

“I was raised to work hard at everything I do," said Hickey.

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.

Hickey’s favorite part of working in the Navy is working with other service members.

“I enjoy getting to know sailors and Marines from all walks of life,” said Hickey.

Though there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Hickey is most proud of serving in the military.

“Serving my country is the most rewarding experience,” said Hickey. “Every deployment and mission completed makes me proud to serve. I love getting to help people around world.”

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Hickey, 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 being a part of history," added Hickey. “We get to directly contribute to events that change the world.”