San Antonio Sailor Trades Anchors for Gold Bars

ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- A USS San Antonio (LPD 17) Sailor was selected for commissioning as an ensign through the Limited Duty Officer (LDO) program.

Chief Engineman Johnnie Lowery, a native of Ellenboro, N.C., is one of 27 throughout the Navy selected for engineering/repair (surface) designator.

"Being selected to some means more money, but I see the pride of serving and being the first officer in my family out of the last five generations," said Lowery.

This was not Lowery's first time applying for LDO. The third time was the charm for the twelve-year Sailor.
Lowery attributes his motivation to his "desire for increased responsibilities and support from family members to pursue his dreams."

"Chief Lowery being selected is a great thing," said Master Chief Engineman Gibson Greene. "He is what we need leading the forefront of the Navy. He brings a lot to the table from administration skills, leadership skills and he is technically sound."

Lowery will depart San Antonio in October, obtain his commission Nov. 1, and report for school Nov. 4.

"I could not be more proud of Chief Lowery," said Cmdr. Neil Koprowski, USS San Antonio, commanding officer. "His dedication to his field and this ship is a true testament to his character. I look forward to continuing to work with him now and in the future."

Lowery offered a few words of advice to junior Sailors on not only LDO matters, but what it means to be a Sailor.

"When you want something bad enough don't give up." said Lowery. "It if takes you 10 times don't get discouraged. The benefits will outweigh your lack of patience."

The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group includes Amphibious Squadron 4 (PHIBRON), amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17), dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) and embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The group is on a scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility.

For more news from USS San Antonio, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/lpd17/.