Truman Welcomes Reserve Sailors

USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75)welcomed nine Reservists Jan. 20 from detachments in Detroit, Mich., and Columbus, Ohio for approximately two weeks of integrated training.

"The Reservists are here to seamlessly integrate with the active-duty personnel and fill the jobs just as active-duty Sailors would," said Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) Patrick Cavanaugh, the acting officer in charge of Naval Reserve Carrier Atlantic Fleet (NR CVN LANT). "This training is vital. The Reserve Forces can be looked at as an insurance policy and are called upon if needed. The ATs (annual training requirements) are important so that when we are mobilized, we are better equipped."

Reservists have played a more integral part in supporting the mission of the military since 9/11. Frequently, Reserve units are used to augment undermanned active-duty units during deployments. Due to the possibility of being mobilized at any moment, the role of the Reservist has changed.

AT is a mandatory two-week training that must be completed every year. During this time, Reservists augment exercises, receive hands-on training or maintain or renew qualifications. Although training is regularly performed at various Reserve centers, it is difficult to mimic the reality of the shipboard environment.

Damage Controlman 3rd Class Tamara Robinson, a Reserve Sailor currently on board Truman from CVN LANT, is grateful to the Reserves for allowing to serve her country and pursue her passion for teaching.

"I didn't want to lose my connection to the military. I'm here to get hands-on training and to do things we are unable to do on shore. I am also getting a better understanding of my rate while giving the fleet some support," explained Robinson.

Reservists are still required to maintain all military requirements and physical fitness. They must meet the same criteria as the active duty Sailor, which can sometimes present challenges, since most Reservists also have civilian careers.

"Even though it's part-time, we are still required to maintain our qualifications. But it's a little harder because we don't do this every day," said Robinson.
Even with the challenges of balancing both a civilian career and a military career, Robinson said she wouldn't change a thing.

"My time in the military has been very rewarding. I definitely look back at the Navy as one of my most cherished memories," said Robinson.

For more news from USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn75/.