A 2002 Lenawee Christian High School graduate and Adrian, Michigan, native provides key support as part of combat operations aboard USS Philippine Sea.
Petty officer 2nd class Arthur Watson is a Navy damage controlman aboard the guided-missile cruiser.
A Navy damage controlman is responsible for performing organizational and intermediate level maintenance and repair of damage control equipment and systems.
“My favorite part about being in my rate is that every day is different, not every day is monotonous,” Watson said.
Watson credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in Adrian.
“I grew up in an area that was pretty wealthy,” Watson said. “I worked with my father and he taught me what a strong work ethic could bring you.”
U.S. Navy sailors, like Watson, are stationed both stateside and on the high seas aboard surface ships around the world. Philippine Sea is one of more than 60 ships on the east coast of the United States as part of Naval Surface Forces, U.S. Atlantic Fleet.
U.S. Navy ships are deployed globally, and their presence helps the Navy control the sea. Sea control is vital to project power, secure common areas, deter aggression and assure allies when and where desired.
Due to its extensive combat capability, Philippine Sea is able to fire Tomahawk Cruise Missiles and other weapons as part of sustained combat operations against targets on and below the sea, in addition to hitting targets hundreds of miles over the land.
The ship is equipped with the Aegis Combat System, which integrates the ship’s electronic sensors and weapons systems to defend against anti-ship missile threats. The ship’s air search and fire control radar provides continuous search and tracking of hundreds targets simultaneously.
The crew of more than 400 sailors build a strong fellowship while working alongside each other. The sailors are highly motivated, and quickly adapt to changing conditions as part of a busy life of specialized work, watches and
drills.
“The most rewarding part about being on a missile cruiser is that we are always ready for the fight, it’s a small
deck so the camaraderie is easy to see throughout the ship,” Watson said.
Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, Watson is most proud of advancing to petty officer second class in only three years.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Watson 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.
“Serving in the Navy is a test to know my fortitude, who I am right now, and who I can become,” Watson said. “Without us evil would prevail throughout the world.”
*Story and Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Theodore Quintana, Navy Office of Community Outreach*
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