By U.S. Navy Chief Mass
Communication Specialist Bill Steele
BATH, Maine – A 1995 Lincoln High School graduate and San Diego, California
native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided missile destroyer, USS
Rafael Peralta.
Chief Petty Officer Demetrius Benjamin
is a fire controlman aboard the Arleigh
Burke-class guided missile destroyer operating out of Bath, Maine.
A Navy fire controlman
is responsible for managing and maintaining the
ship's weapon's systems.
“Being on the leading edge of
technology is unique because this is an opportunity that you can only get in
the Navy,” said Benjamin.
Currently under construction, Rafael Peralta measures
approximately 500 feet and is powered by four gas turbines that allow the
destroyer to achieve over 30 mph in open seas. Destroyers are tactical
multi-mission surface combatants capable of conducting anti-air warfare,
anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and ballistic missile defense, as
well as humanitarian assistance. Fast, maneuverable, and technically advanced,
destroyers provide the required warfighting expertise and operational
flexibility to execute any tasking overseas.
“The men and women of
Peralta are the best and brightest our great nation has to offer in defense of
our ideals and way of life,” said Cmdr. Brian Ribota, Commanding Officer of USS
Rafael Peralta. “They are an impressive group of volunteer patriots who all
citizens of this great nation should be proud of. It is an honor to stand the
watch alongside them onboard this amazing ship built in the best shipyard in
America, Bath Iron Works of Bath, Maine.”
With a crew of over 300 sailors, jobs
are highly specialized and keep each part of the destroyer running smoothly,
according to Navy officials. The jobs range from washing dishes
and preparing meals to maintaining engines and handling weaponry.
“This ship's namesake went to
high school near me and it is an honor to serve here and grow a legacy on this
brand new ship,” Benjamin said.
Challenging living conditions build strong fellowship among
the crew, Navy officials explained. The crew is highly motivated, and quickly
adapt to changing conditions. It is a busy life of specialized work, watches,
and drills.
“Serving in the Navy gives me
a personal opportunity to provide security for my family and loved ones,”
said Benjamin. “It’s been a privilege to
serve my country.”
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