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WAHS alum reflects on his Warren values from U.S. Navy ship

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class David Finley

A 2017 Warren Area High School graduate and Warren native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided-missile destroyer, USS Chung-Hoon.

Seaman Troy Johnson works as a Navy sonar technician (surface) aboard the forward-deployed Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer operating out of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.

Johnson credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in Warren.

“I’ve learned that working together is always the best way to work and often helps to avoid miscommunications,” said Johnson.

Chung-Hoon measures approximately 500 feet and is powered by four gas turbines that allow the destroyer to achieve more than 30 mph in open seas.

Approximately 30 officers and 300 enlisted men and women make up the ship’s company. Their jobs are highly specialized and keep each part of the cruiser running smoothly, according to Navy officials. The jobs range from maintaining engines and handling weaponry to washing dishes and preparing meals.

As a Navy sonar technician (surface), Johnson is responsible for underwater surveillance and help with navigation and search and rescue operations.

According to Navy officials, destroyers are tactical multi-mission surface combatants capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface warfare, as well as humanitarian assistance. Fast, maneuverable, and technically advanced, destroyers provide the required war-fighting expertise and operational flexibility to execute any tasking overseas.

Being stationed in Pearl Harbor, often referred to as the gateway to the Pacific in defense circles, means Johnson is serving in a part of the world taking on a new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances, and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.

“Our priorities center on people, capabilities and processes, and will be achieved by our focus on speed, value, results and partnerships,” said Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer. “Readiness, lethality and modernization are the requirements driving these priorities.”

Serving in the Navy is a continuing tradition of military service for Johnson, who has military ties with family members who have previously served. Johnson is honored to carry on that family tradition.

“My grandfather was also a sonar technician, like myself,” said Johnson. “It’s interesting to be able to follow what he had done in his past.”

Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, Johnson is most proud of earning the Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist qualification and the Enlisted Air Warfare Specialist qualification within his first deployment.

“For most people, the Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist qualification takes longer to complete,” said Johnson. “Most complete it within a year or two, but I was able to complete my qualification in about four months.”

As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Johnson and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes, one that will provide a critical component of the Navy the nation needs.

“While it isn’t as easy to visit family living in Hawaii, I really enjoy living here,” added Johnson. “Serving in the Navy has given me a chance to see the world, to be able to have a college career, and to meet new people.

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