Navy People: Emily Smith - Off on pirate patrol

15 March 2010

Mereweather’s Emily Smith is heading for six months anti-pirate patrol in the Middle East but really appreciates the support her family is giving her.

“Serving overseas is difficult but I don’t have to worry about what’s going on back at home,” Emily said. “I know I can concentrate on the job I have to do.”

Emily and her shipmates set sail aboard HMAS Parramatta from Sydney on March 15.

“My job involves working with radios, computers and other communication systems. There are the basic day to day procedures of being a Communications and Information System Sailor, however, there is always something new to learn — or fix..”

“My job is never the same – there are the long days and short days, but it’s the people I work with that make my job very enjoyable,” Emily said. “I am constantly learning and my skills are improving every day. I am looking forward to increasing my knowledge working my way up through the ranks.”

Emily says the thing she will miss most while on deployment is her family and friends.

“It can be challenging leaving on deployment, but the social atmosphere is extremely positive in our Department. Everyone knows each other, we have all been through the same ups and downs and we all get in and help each other out,” said Emily. “As a new member to HMAS Parramatta, I feel that my department has really helped me settle in and has made me feel very welcome.”

“I am really proud to be helping counter piracy in the Gulf of Aden.”