Maintainers in the Trenches

Aviation Structural Mechanic 3rd Class Lakesha Clark, assigned to the HSC-6, adjusts screws for an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Navy photo by MCS Derek Harkins.

Aviation Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Timothy Melton, assigned to the VFA-105, uses a bore scope on an engine to search for blockage or parts needing to be replaced aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Navy photo by MCS Emily Blair. Aviation ordnancemen assemble a GBU-12 inert training round aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). Navy photo by MC3 J. Michael Schwartz.

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Airman Ericka Stewart, attaches an MK 105 pendant to a cargo net on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) during a replenishment-atsea. Navy photo by MC2 Lyle Wilkie III.

GySgt Leonel Lora, middle, assigned to the 31st MEU, uses a bore scope camera to verify the engine of a AV/8B is serviceable while SSgt Steven Vladiff, left, observes and Cpl Justin Powers, top, turns the blades of the engine in the hangar bay aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6). Navy photo by MC2 Betsy Knapper. Aviation Structural Mechanic (Equipment) 2nd Class Christopher Miller, rear left, Aviation Structural Mechanic 3rd Class Phillip Welch, front left, and Aviation Structural Mechanic (Equipment) 2nd Class John Dobson install new tires on an F/A-18C Hornet assigned to VFA-146 in the hangar bay aboard the USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Navy photo by MCS Eric Butler.

Cpl Bryan Swanson, assigned to VMM-266 (Reinforced), installs a hub in an engine of an MV-22 Osprey aboard the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3). Navy photo by MC3 Tamara Vaughn.