Airman Apprentice Robert Cruse is a native of Collins Center.

NORFOLK, Va. — Airman Apprentice Robert Cruse, a native of Collins Center, serves aboard a U.S. Navy warship operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.

Cruse attended Plymouth High School and graduated in 2014.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Collins Center.

“I was a volunteer firefighter in my hometown so that background helps with my job putting out fires,” said Cruse.

Cruse joined the Navy one year ago.

Today, Cruse serves as an aviation boatswain’s mate (handling) aboard USS Kearsarge.

“I joined the Navy for educational benefits, to travel the world and to receive more training,” said Cruse.

Kearsarge’s crew is made up of approximately 1,200 crewmembers and can accommodate up to 1,800 Marines. Amphibious assault ships transfer Marines, equipment and supplies, and can support helicopters or other aircraft. Kearsarge is the third ship in the Wasp class of multipurpose amphibious assault ships and is the fourth Navy vessel to bear the name of Mount Kearsarge in New Hampshire.

With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.

Cruse and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.

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“I am most proud of finishing boot camp,” said Cruse. “I didn’t have any cares in the world so I thought it would be hard to pass but I worked hard so I could. I am also proud of getting married because I thought I would never do that.”

As Cruse and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

“Serving in the Navy means everything to me,” said Cruse.

Cruse is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I want to thank my spouse, Rebecca Palucha, my mother-in-law, Ronda Paulcah, father-in-law, Ron Paulcah, and the Springville fire department for supporting me and standing by my side,” added Cruse.