Hoffman Estates native serves aboard Navy's largest amphibious warship
A 2012 Hoffman Estates High School graduate and Hoffman Estates native is currently serving aboard the largest amphibious warship in the Navy.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Jeremy Kowalski is a quartermaster serving aboard USS Boxer, based in San Diego.
As a Navy quartermaster, Kowalski is responsible for the safe navigation of the ship.
"Growing up, I learned to have a strong work ethic everyday, which I apply to my Navy career," Kowalski said.
Boxer is an amphibious assault ship that resembles a small aircraft carrier. Approximately 3,000 Sailors and Marines 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, according to Navy officials.
Boxer is famous for playing a critical role in the rescue mission of Capt. Richard Phillips on April 12, 2009. U.S. Navy SEALS and other special operations forces from USS Bainbridge rescued Phillips, who was later transferred to Boxer for medical evaluation and care. This successful rescue mission was portrayed in the 2013 movie "Captain Phillips," starring Tom Hanks, and featuring crew members from the Boxer.
The ship is armed with two semiactive radar-guided NATO Sea Sparrow missile systems for anti-air warfare protection, two rolling airframe missile systems and two Phalanx close-in weapon-system mounts to counter threats from low-flying aircraft and close-in small craft.
It's 844 feet long and 106 feet wide and weighs nearly 45,000 tons, with two gas turbine engines that push the ship through water at more than 22 knots.
As a member of the U.S. Navy's amphibious assault ship, Kowalski is proud to be part of the most capable amphibious force in the world.
Kowalski's proudest accomplishment was receiving his Quartermaster of the Watch and Master Helmsman qualifications.
"It means that I am qualified to serve as helmsman, especially during special evolutions that require more precision training," said Kowalski.
"The success of our Surface Force ships is measured by our ability to provide Fleet Commanders 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 each and every surface warrior's contributions to the Navy's enduring mission of protecting and defending America, at home and around the world."
Kowalski has military ties with family members who are currently serving.
"My little brother joined the Navy a year after me, and I think I may have had some influence on that decision," Kowalski said.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy's most relied-upon assets, Kowalski and other Boxer sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes.
"I'm a different person now than I was in high school," said Kowalski. "I know the meaning of hard work, dedication and what it feels like serving on a massive Navy ship."