Poplar Grove native serves aboard Navy warship in San Diego

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class James H. Green

NAVY OFFICE OF COMMUNITY OUTREACH

SUBMITTED PHOTO Belvidere Daily Republican
Fireman Apprentice Teagan Ryan is a fireman aboard the guided-missile destroyer operating out of San Diego.

A Poplar Grove native and 2017 North Boone High School graduate is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard USS Russell. Fireman Apprentice Teagan Ryan is a fireman aboard the guided-missile destroyer operating out of San Diego.

A Navy fireman is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the air conditioner units on the ship.

“Hard work and dedication to the task at hand are lessons I learned from my hometown that have carried me through my military career so far,” Ryan said.

More than 300 sailors serve aboard the ship, and their jobs are highly specialized, requiring both dedication and skill. The jobs range from maintaining engines to handling weaponry along with a multitude of other assignments that keep the ship mission-ready at all times, ac-cording to Navy officials.

“The success of our Surface Force ships is measured by our ability to provide Fleet Com-manders with combat naval power at sea and to project that power ashore where and when it matters,” said Vice Adm. Richard A. Brown, commander, Naval Surface Forces. “It’s hard work to ready ships for combat operations at sea – it takes the talent of an entire crew working well together. I’m extremely proud of the each and every surface warrior’s contributions to the Navy’s enduring mission of protecting and defending America, at home and around the world.”

A Navy destroyer is a multi-mission ship that can operate independently or as part of a larger

For complete article, pick up the Feb. 21 Belvidere Daily Republican.