The sun shines off the water as the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mustin (DDG 89) glides across the South China Sea.

Sailors are strewn across the ship, working in their various spaces. Some Sailors enjoy the moderate temperatures outside, while others are hard at work in the dark rooms within the skin of the ship.

In one of these brisk dark rooms, brimming with bustling movement and humming equipment, stands a steadfast young woman. At nearly 19 years old, she ensures the operation efficiencies required of Mustin to maintain readiness are functioning.

The young woman, Seaman Jessica Jaral from McKinney, Texas, is recognized as the ship's Sailor of the Month for her achievements and performance which exceeded well above her paygrade.

"Seaman Jaral has fostered a culture of pride and ownership on board Mustin through her superior performance of duties," said Cmdr. Thane Clare, commanding officer of the Mustin. "She has demonstrated unparalleled leadership that ensured the very highest standards of professionalism, safety and readiness for operations and Mustin."

Jaral took charge and supervised personnel during the overhaul and preservation of the helicopter control tower on board the ship. The results of the work performed exceeded inspection standards and overall performance.

When asked about how she felt earning the Sailor of the Month achievement she replied modestly.

"I am very hard on myself and so I place high standards that I try to reach," said Jaral. "I feel like I don't deserve it because I feel that those around me work much harder than I do."

She continues to impress and encourage others by her desire for personal and professional growth and to see the world and explore different cultures.

"Jaral is a wonderful Sailor," said Petty Officer 2nd Class Stuart Nunley. "She has heart, she doesn't quit and she is always pushing herself and because of that she is going to go far."

Jaral enlisted in the Navy after her graduation from high school in June of 2015. She completed boot camp, "A"-School and reported for duty on board Mustin in March, 2016. Her first short-term goal is to make Petty Officer 1st Class while on board the Mustin.

"I want to grow more as a person," said Jaral. "I want to grow more through experience and knowledge."

As the sun sets over the South China Sea, Sailors continue working and the young woman begins her watch after a long day of work inside the dark room, steadfast and vigilant.

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