By Kayla Turnbow, Navy Office of Community Outreach
PEARL HARBOR – A Tampa, Florida, native and 2015 C. Leon King High School graduate is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided-missile cruiser, USS Port Royal.
Seaman Robert Rumph is serving aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser operating out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
A Navy seaman is responsible for keeping the ship in standard working condition, and general shipboard duties.“
Growing up, I learned to never change who you are for the benefit of others,” said Rumph. “In the Navy, you don't need to change who you are to be accepted. I think it is important to stay true to yourself.”
Approximately 300 men and women serve aboard the ship. According to Navy officials, their jobs are highly specialized and keep each part of the cruiser running smoothly. They do everything from maintaining gas turbine engines and operating the highly sophisticated Aegis weapons system to driving the ship and operating small boats."
Our sailors in Pearl Harbor are doing an excellent job at warfighting and supporting the warfighter," said Cmdr. Hurd, chief staff officer, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. "Historically, Pearl Harbor is a symbolic base of sacrifice and resiliency. Today, on every Navy ship and shore facility's flag pole, the First Navy Jack, 'Don't Tread on Me,' flies reminding sailors to move forward and build on the history and legacy of this country and the U.S. Navy."
A Navy cruiser is a multi-mission ship that can operate independently or as part of a larger group of ships at sea Navy officials explained. The ship is equipped with a vertical launching system, tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns and a phalanx close-in weapons systems.
Serving aboard USS Port Royal is a continuing tradition of military service for Rumph, who has military ties with family members who have previously served. Rumph is honored to carry on that family tradition.“
My uncle-in-law was in the Air Force,” said Rumph. “He helped me physically prepare to join the military. He helped me understand what it is like to be held to a higher standard.”
Challenging living conditions build strong fellowship among the crew. The crew is motivated, and can quickly adapt to changing conditions. It is a busy life of specialized work, watches, and drills. Serving aboard a guided-missile cruiser instills accountability and toughness and fosters initiative and integrity.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied-upon assets, Rumph and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.“
Serving in the Navy means following through with your mission no matter how tough things may get,” added Rumph.