Sept. 19, 2013
Vol. 2 Issue 105
DAILY DIGEST
AVIATION BOATSWAIN’S MATES: LAUNCHING FREEDOM, RECOVERING VICTORY
T
he purpose of an aircraft carrier is simple: to provide a mobile space for aircraft to launch and land safely, while maximizing their potential to strike the enemy. Every Sailor on board the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) plays a part in accomplishing the mission, though some do so in a more direct manner than others. A hull maintenance technician may spend every day inside the keel of the ship, ensuring Nimitz is intact and structurally sound and operable. The deck seaman, who stands watch during the cold, damp, lonely hours of early morning, contributes to the success of Nimitz. Even a ship’s serviceman spends hours entrenched in the steamy laundry room, guaranteeing clean clothes for the ship’s com-
Story and photos by MCSN Siobhana R. McEwen
pany. Few Sailors, though, find themselves in a rate as closely connected to the mission of the ship as members of the aviation boatswain’s mate (AB) rating. “The AB community is unique. We all work together, which is symbolized by the anchors,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) 2nd Class Dominyk Brown, referring to the AB rating badge, “showing that no one AB can do it alone.” Brown said each AB rate plays a significant role in getting planes off the flight deck. “The ABFs [fuel], or combat grapes, fuel the plane; the ABHs [handling] direct the plane and bring them to the catapult, which is where we take over,” Brown said. CONTINUED ON PAGE 4