Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Chelsea Mandello | Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Bridney Brown uses the “big eyes” to scan the horizon...... read more read more
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Chelsea Mandello Amphibious Assault Squadron (PHIBRON) 11
USS BONHOMME RICHARD – Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Bridney Brown, daughter of Robin Walker and Billy Williams of Barnesville, Ga., is currently serving aboard amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) during a scheduled deployment.
Officially established in 1797 the boatswain’s mate rating is the oldest rate of the U.S. Navy. Boatswain’s mates train, direct and supervise a ship’s maintenance in addition to other tasks.
“Everything we do is dangerous,” said Brown. “I don’t think a lot of people understand how dangerous it can be. Some people think of us just line handlers, but lines can take a leg, an arm or a life.”
Safety is an important part of every boatswain’s mates duty. The occupation handles various exercises such as refueling of the ship, releasing the anchor and handling cargo.
“It’s important to have situational awareness in everything you do as a boatswain’s mate,” said Brown “You have to be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.”
In addition to the line-handling tradition, boatswain’s mates also handle the ships preservation and work with the Marine expeditionary unit.
“Our job is very demanding,” said Brown. “Between sending out landing craft unit’s [LCU], refueling the ship and conducting other day-to-day activities, it can wear you out.”
Many of the boatswain’s mates take great pride in their work and express that the reason a ship runs is due to their hard work. Boatswain’s mates can work from eight to 24 hour days depending on evolutions or exercises.
“I enjoy being in the Navy,” said Brown. “It has been a great experience so far. The Navy has allowed me to become stronger and I have learned so much in the last two years,” said Brown.
Brown graduated Lamar County High School in 2009 and is currently attending Ashford University.
Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11, commanded by Capt. Cathal O’Connor, is the only forward-deployed amphibious ready group in the world and is currently deployed aboard USS Bonhomme Richard. From more news about PHIBRON 11 and USS Bonhomme Richard visit: www.facebook.com/PHIBRON11 www.c7f.navy.mil
| Date Taken: | 08.14.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 08.14.2012 06:47 |
| Story ID: | 93168 |
| Location: | USS BONHOMME RICHARD, USAFRICOM, AT SEA |
| Web Views: | 212 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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