A 2012 Stephen F. Austin State University graduate and Nacogdoches native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided-missile destroyer, USS Dewey.
Ensign Amber Chapman is the communications officer as well as the legal officer aboard the Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer operating out of San Diego.
A Navy communications officer is responsible for all communications on and off the ship.
“My favorite part of my job as an officer is mentoring the sailors,” Chapman said. “I love that I have the opportunity to make a difference in their careers.”
Commissioned in March of 2010, Dewey measures approximately 500 feet and is powered by four gas turbines that allow the destroyer to achieve over 30 mph in open seas. Dewey is named for George Dewey, the only officer of the U.S. Navy ever to hold the rank of Admiral of the Navy.
Destroyers are tactical multi-mission surface combatants capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface warfare, as well as humanitarian assistance.
Fast, maneuverable and technically advanced, destroyers provide the required warfighting expertise and operational flexibility to execute any tasking overseas.
With a crew of more than 300 sailors, jobs are highly specialized and keep each part of the destroyer running smoothly, according to Navy officials. The jobs range from washing dishes and preparing meals to maintaining engines and handling weaponry.
“I love that I get to work closely with the commanding officer,” Chapman said. “The wardroom is tight knit, which makes the ship a great work environment.”
Challenging living conditions build strong fellowship among the crew, Navy officials explained. The crew is highly motivated, and quickly adapt to changing conditions. It is a busy life of specialized work, watches, and drills.
“Joining the Navy is something I’ve always looked forward to since I was 17 and wanted to have a job I would be proud of,” Chapman said.
