By Stephanie Fox
A Millington native is serving aboard USS Essex, a U.S. Navy Wasp class amphibious assault ship.
Petty Officer 1st Class Michael Domingo is a 2000 Millington Central High School graduate and attended American Military University. Today, Domingo serves as a religious program specialist.
Religious program specialists facilitate religious services.
Domingo joined the Navy 18 years ago to serve the country.
“I joined the Navy to see the world, travel and experience different cultures,” said Domingo.
According to Domingo, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Millington.
“I grew up in a Navy town,” said Domingo. “My father is a retired mess management specialist. Knowing about the Navy prior to enlisting helped.”
Homeported in San Diego, California, USS Essex is the second ship in the Wasp-class of multipurpose amphibious assault ships and the fifth ship named for Essex County, Massachusetts. Essex was a 1000-ton ironclad river gunboat of the U.S. Army and later U.S. Navy during the American Civil War.
According to Navy officials, amphibious assault ships are designed to deliver U.S. Marines and their equipment where they are needed to support a variety of missions ranging from amphibious assaults to humanitarian relief efforts. Designed to be versatile, the ship has the option of simultaneously using helicopters, Harrier jets, and Landing Craft Air Cushioned, as well as conventional landing craft and assault vehicles in various combinations.
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers while serving in the Navy.
“My proudest Navy accomplishment has been helping with disaster relief,” said Domingo. “My father is a retired mess management specialist. Knowing about the Navy prior to enlisting helped.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Domingo, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“Serving in the Navy is a sacrifice I’m proud to make,” added Domingo. “Family is first.”
