Exploring the Worst Jobs in the U.S. Navy for Enlisted Personnel
When considering the U.S. Navy, many envision life aboard aircraft carriers, patrolling the seas, and performing crucial tasks. However, there are certain roles that can be genuinely challenging, particularly for enlisted personnel. This article explores the experiences of service members, focusing on two notable examples: the Machine Shop on a beat-up old ship versus a brand new aircraft carrier. Additionally, we’ll dive into one of the most dangerous jobs in the Navy – flight deck duty aboard aircraft carriers.
Machine Shop Experiences: Old vs. New Ships
My first couple of years in the Navy were spent aboard the machine shop on a relatively small, old Gator Freighter. The ship’s crew—around 400 people—offered a close-knit unit. Everyone knew each other, and there was plenty of work and interesting challenges. It was a great experience for me.
Contrastingly, my final year involved the machine shop on USS Theodore Roosevelt CVN-71, a new and highly advanced aircraft carrier. Upon joining in 1988, the ship was nearing its operational phase, and I was there for her first Mediterranean Cruise. This was significantly worse duty for me. The ship was entirely new, and there was little work to be done.
The crew consisted of 7 young machinists who were eager to put their skills to work, but without many jobs available, their days were spent cleaning the shop. As the E5 rank officer, I was responsible for the night shift when underway and managed two subordinates. Despite my efforts to engage customers and provide high-quality services, it often resulted in waste and frustration due to our lack of work.
Furthermore, the USS Theodore Roosevelt had a large crew, 5,200 personnel, with many living off the ship at the Naval Air Station. This led to a lack of unit cohesion, which dampened morale. On the bright side, the shop was impeccably clean, making personnel inspections much easier and less daunting.
Talking from personal experience, my last assignment on the Theodore Roosevelt was the worst billet of my career. I couldn’t wait to leave the ship. It was a stark contrast to my previous experience, making it one of the most inconvenient and frustrating jobs for me.
Flight Deck Crew: The Most Dangerous Jobs in the Navy
When discussing the worst jobs in the Navy, it is important to consider the level of danger involved. One of the most perilous duties is being part of the flight deck crew aboard aircraft carriers. This role includes working as a red shirt (loader), purple shirt (ordnance/bomb/rocket delivery), green shirt (catapults and wires), and blue shirt (moving aircraft).
Despite the risks, this role is often contrasted with the improved survivability of working on a large, stable aircraft carrier compared to smaller, more vulnerable ships in rough weather. However, the danger cannot be understated. Personnel in these positions require specialized training and high levels of skill to manage the complex system of moving and launching aircraft.
Moreover, the contract for service in the Navy means that sailors must be prepared to perform whatever job they are assigned, regardless of personal preferences. So, even if a role is considered the worst, it remains within the scope of their duty.
Conclusion: Understanding the Challenges
While the Navy offers a wide range of experiences, some roles are undoubtedly more challenging for enlisted personnel. The experience of working in the machine shop on a new or old ship, and the dangers of being in flight deck crew, highlight the importance of adaptability and resilience.
Ultimately, serving in the U.S. Navy is a commitment that requires dedication and a willingness to face whatever challenges arise. It is crucial for sailors to recognize the value of their contributions and the broader context of their roles in ensuring the safety and security of our nation.