Lt. Nick Lunsford serving on USS Ronald Reagan
Lt. Nick Lunsford, a 2000 Clinton-Massie High School and 2004 Ohio State University graduate from Wilmington, is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard one of the world's largest warships, the San Diego-based aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76).
USS Ronald Reagan is a Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier and one of only ten operational aircraft carriers in the Navy today, protecting and defending America on the world's oceans.
Tens of thousands of America's finest young men and women are deployed around the world doing just that, and they are there around the clock, far from our shores, defending America at all times.
Approximately 3,000 men and women make up the ship's company, which keeps all parts of the aircraft carrier running smoothly – this includes everything from washing dishes and preparing meals to handling weaponry and maintaining the nuclear reactors.
Another 2,500 or so form the air wing, the people who actually fly and maintain the aircraft.
"I never cease to be impressed with the type and quality of work that goes on aboard the carrier each day," said Capt. Christopher E. Bolt, the carrier's commanding officer.
"Our team is filled with highly qualified young adults – in many cases, 19 and 20 years old – and they're out here launching and recovering aircraft, running a complex propulsion system safely, serving as air traffic controllers, operating sophisticated electronics, and keeping this floating city alive and functioning.
"Their work ethic, enthusiasm, and esprit de corps are second to none. If you pick up a newspaper in any city and examine what other 19- and 20-year-olds are doing, there is no comparison to the level of responsibility our sailors hold. That caliber of sailor is what has earned us the title of America's Flagship."
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Why Being There Matters
On our planet, more than 70 percent of which is covered by water, being there means having the ability to act from the sea. The Navy is uniquely positioned to be there; the world's oceans give the Navy the power to protect America's interests anywhere, and at any time. Your Navy protects and defends America on the world's oceans.
Navy ships, submarines, aircraft and, most importantly, tens of thousands of America's finest young men and women are deployed around the world doing just that. They are there now. They will be there when we are sleeping tonight. They will be there every Saturday, Sunday and holiday this year. They are there around the clock, far from our shores, defending America at all times.
Thank you very much for your support of the men and women in U.S. Navy, deployed around the clock and ready to protect and defend America on the world's oceans.
Submitted by MC2(SW/AW) Jesse Dick
NAVCO Webmaster
Navy Office of Community Outreach
5722 Integrity Drive, Bldg 456-3
Millington, Tenn. 38054