Franklin native serves aboard guided-missile destroyer

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM — A 2012 Wallkill Valley High School graduate and Franklin, N.J., native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided-missile destroyer, USS Michael Murphy.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Mariana Martinez is an information systems technician aboard the forward-deployed Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer operating out of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.
A Navy information systems technician is responsible for working with computer systems, routers, and communications. The job also involves cyber security training.
“I enjoy being able to efficently complete the mission that we are assigned to handle,” said Martinez. “The people that I work with are a team. We have a team spirit on the USS Michael Murphy.”
Michael Murphy, measures approximately 500 feet and is powered by four gas turbines that allow the destroyer to achieve more than 30 mph in open seas.
According to Navy officials, 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.
“Our Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific guided-missile destroyers are poised, trained, equipped and ready to deploy forward and support the Fleet,” said Rear Adm. John Fuller, commander, Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific. “Working with friends and allies, our MIDPAC sailors provide sea control, advance maritime security, enhance regional stability, and foster continued prosperity in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.”
Approximately 30 officers and 300 enlisted men and women make up the ship's company. Their jobs are highly specialized and keep each part of the cruiser running smoothly, according to Navy officials. The jobs range from maintaining engines and handling weaponry to washing dishes and preparing meals.
“I like currently being stationed in Hawaii because it is a historic location with the USS Arizona Memorial in the area,” said Martinez.
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.
“In my off time I can enjoy the beautiful beaches of Hawaii and I like taking hikes around the island,” said Martinez.