Navy People: Able Seaman embraces a life at sea
11 October 2008
Nhulunbuy in the Northern Territory is a long way from any large scale Navy presence, but former resident Able Seaman Phillip Howell has embraced a life at sea.
Twenty two year old Phillip, who has been in the Navy for two years, is currently serving as a Communications and Information Systems sailor on the Royal Australian Navy frigate HMAS Parramatta, as it patrols the Persian Gulf.
“The Communications and Information Systems team ensure that the ship can communicate with other ships and bases ashore. We also look after internet and email connections for the crew. Email is a huge morale booster for the crew as it is often the quickest way to get a message to loved ones,” Phillip said.
Both HMAS Parramatta and Phillip were put through their paces over the past few months preparing the ship for deployment.
“Even though ships have modern communication systems, we still train to send messages using flashing lights and flags,” Phillip said.
HMAS Parramatta will be away from Australia for up to six months, however this is not the first long trip Phillip has been involved in since joining the Navy.
“I was fortunate enough to be onboard Parramatta when it sailed to North Asia last year and I was able to visit ports in China, Japan, and Russia. The best thing about this deployment to the Persian Gulf will be the chance to see more new places.”
HMAS Parramatta is stationed in the Gulf as part of Operation Catalyst and Slipper, Australia’s commitment to the security and reconstruction of Iraq and Afghanistan until February 2009. The ship will contribute to the protection of Iraqi oil platforms, security boardings of all vessels proceeding to the platforms and training of the Iraqi Navy. This is the second time that HMAS Parramatta has been deployed to the Gulf and is the Navy’s 19th rotation to the area since September 2001.
Phillip says he looks forward to the moment when he returns home.
“I’m looking forward to sailing through Sydney heads, wearing my medals and being reunited with family and friends.”
