2015 Random Lake High School graduate and Petty Officer 3rd Class Sean Mullane works as a Navy cryptologic technician (maintenance) aboard the forward-deployed Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer operating out of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. He is joined on the ship by 2017 Port Washington High School graduate and Petty Officer 3rd Class Tyler Wolf, who works as a Navy cryptologic technician (technical).
Both sailors credit their success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in Sheboygan.“Growing up in a small town has taught me the value of friends and family,” said Mullane. “It showed me how to cooperate and work well with those around me.”
“I learned to be self-motivated and independent,” added Wolf.
Halsey measures approximately 500 feet and is powered by four gas turbines that allow the destroyer to achieve more than 30 mph in open seas.
Approximately 30 officers and 300 enlisted men and women make up the ship’s company. Their jobs are highly specialized and keep each part of the cruiser running smoothly, according to Navy officials. The jobs range from maintaining engines and handling weaponry to washing dishes and preparing meals.
As a Navy cryptologic technician (technical), Wolf is responsible for protecting and defending against anti-ship missiles and analyzing radar to identify potential threats. In his role as a Navy cryptologic technician (maintenance), Mullane is responsible for fixing and maintaining the ship’s specialized computer systems.
According to Navy officials, destroyers are tactical multi-mission surface combatants capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface warfare, as well as humanitarian assistance. Fast, maneuverable, and technically advanced, destroyers provide the required war-fighting expertise and operational flexibility to execute any tasking overseas.
Being stationed in Pearl Harbor, often referred to as the gateway to the Pacific in defense circles, means Wolf and Mullane are serving in a part of the world taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances, and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“Our priorities center on people, capabilities, and processes, and will be achieved by our focus on speed, value, results and partnerships,” said Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer. “Readiness, lethality and modernization are the requirements driving these priorities.”
Serving in the Navy is a continuing tradition of military service for both sailors, who have military ties with family members who have previously served. They are honored to carry on that family tradition.
“I come from a large military family, so combined with my desire to create new adventures, this influenced my decision to enlist,” said Wolf.
“My father served in the Marine Corps, and it always enamored me. It makes me proud to be able to talk about military life with him. Plus he helps me advance in my career by giving me advice,” said Mullane.
Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, Wolf is most proud of joining the ship’s Visit, Board, Search and Seizure team, which will board other vessels as needed to provide information or search for drugs or other illegal items.
“Being part of this tactical team has helped me create memories and friends that will be with me for the rest of my life,” said Wolf.
Mullane is most proud of deploying to the Asia Pacific and the Middle East regions.
“Being able to contribute to the mission and see so many beautiful sights was an amazing experience,” said Mullane.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied-upon assets, Mullane, Wolf, and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes, one that will provide a critical component of the Navy the nation needs.
“The absolute greatest thing about Naval service to me is seeing with your own eyes how high-level decisions are made and how they equate to military readiness and overall functionality of the military as a whole,” said Mullane.
“The Navy has given me a chance to be part of something bigger than myself,” added Wolf. “I really enjoy making new friends and exploring new places.”
