Petty Officer 2nd Class Thoron Augustin and Fireman Caheal Turnbull, from St. Thomas, serve aboard USS Ramage, a U.S. Navy warship operating out of Mayport, Fla.
According to a release, they are two of more than 300 sailors serving aboard the Ramage.
Sailors on this warship have highly specialized jobs 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.
Augustin, who joined the Navy five years ago, currently serves as a quartermaster. Turnbull, who graduated from Charlotte Amalie High School in 2023, joined the Navy one year ago and currently serves as a damage controlman, according to the release.
“I joined the Navy for the opportunity to better myself,” said Turnbull. “I would like to become a leader and build a career.”
“I joined the Navy to get paid while I travel,” said Augustin. “I also wanted to make a better life for my family.”
Both sailors expressed that their Navy career has offered many opportunities for achievement.
“I made the rank of second class petty officer through the Meritorious Advancement Program,” said Augustin. “When I became a second class petty officer, I was proud that my command recognized and highlighted my accomplishments and achievements.”
“My proudest accomplishment is making the Flying Squad,” said Turnbull. “The Flying Squad are the first responders on the ship. It takes working hard, drilling every day and stepping up when you need to. You can’t hesitate to respond when you need to.”
Augustin and Turnbull expressed being grateful to others for helping make their Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my fiancé,” said Augustin. “I’d also like to thank Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Queiunna Prim. When I had tough times, she kept me grounded and my head on straight. She is always helping me push forward. I would also like to thank the whole crew of USS Leyte Gulf.”
“I would like to thank my family for helping me grow as a person,” added Turnbull. “They taught me responsibility and how to plan for the future.”
Augustin offered some words of advice for those who may be seeking a career in the Navy.
“Serving in the Navy means having to rely on others,” said Augustin.”I enjoy being a part of something bigger than myself and being part of a team. If anyone is thinking of joining the Navy, they should definitely do their research because it could really be for them.”
“Serving in the Navy means having an honorable profession that I can be proud of,” said Turnbull. “I’m proud of being a sailor in the U.S. Navy and I’m honored to wear my uniform out in town. I hope to become a chief petty officer one day and earn my bachelor’s degree.”
With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of Naval Operations, stated, “We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day. Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”
