Wheeling native serves aboard Navy mobile base

A Wheeling native is serving aboard USS Hershel "Woody" Williams, a U.S. Navy Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary mobile base deployed in the Indian Ocean.

Seaman Dion Dumayas is a 2016 Buffalo Grove High School graduate. Today, Dumayas serves as a deck seaman, who cleans, paints and secures equipment safely and properly to the ship.

Dumayas joined the Navy three years ago in the hope of gaining a new perspective.

"I wanted a better future for myself," said Dumayas. "I wanted to travel the world. I joined the Navy for the experience."

According to Dumayas, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Wheeling.

"Growing up, I learned the importance of taking initiative," said Dumayas. "If you want to make progress in life, then you have to take initiative."

USS Hershel "Woody" Williams is named in honor Marine Corps Reserve Chief Warrant Officer 4 Hershel W. Williams, who earned the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II.

According to Navy officials, expeditionary mobile bases are designed to support low-intensity missions, allowing more expensive, high-value amphibious warfare ships and surface combatant warships to be re-tasked for more demanding operational missions.

With more than 90% of all trade traveling by sea, and 95% of the world's international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.

Though there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Dumayas is most proud of creating opportunities for members of his family.

"My greatest accomplishment is creating a happy life for myself and my wife," said Dumayas.

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Dumayas knows he is part of a tradition providing the Navy the nation needs.

"Contrary to my prior belief, serving my country doesn't mean putting myself in harm's way," said Dumayas. "It means leaving the comfort of my home, and family to accomplish tasks many wouldn't ever think of doing."