Atlantic Ocean. (September 7, 2024): U.S. Navy ships have fired thousands of rounds in America’s battle against Houthi terrorists in Yemen, underscoring the need for rapid resupply of ammunition while underway. In this photo by MC2 Merissa Daley, Aviation Ordnancemen 3rd Class Davonte Camp and Lonnie Shive secure ammunition delivered by a Navy MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter onto the deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. These munitions specialists play a vital role in keeping warships resupplied with the proper mix of bombs, missiles, or standard ammunition while at sea.
They are charged with managing all types of ammunition on Navy aircraft and ship-board defense systems. Their duties include inspecting, maintaining, and repairing mechanical and electrical weapons ordnance systems on aircraft as well as their ammunition releasing launching devices. They are also responsible for stowing, assembling, servicing, and loading munitions including mines, torpedoes, missiles, and rockets while operating armories around the clock.
To become an Aviation Ordnanceman, candidates must have a high school diploma, be a U.S. citizen, and eligible for a secret security clearance. Applicants should have strong math skills and aptitude for working with tools, equipment, and machinery.
Important physical attributes include a high level of fitness, normal use of your hands, and normal hearing, color, and depth perception The job also requires performing highly detailed work, keeping accurate records, and the ability to work as a team in high pressure situations.
Recruits must pass initial training at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, Minnesota followed by a nine-week Class “A” technical school in Pensacola, Florida. Here they learn basic aviation theory, diagnostic skills, along with electronic troubleshooting. Once they complete their training, Aviation Ordnancemen may be assigned to a squadron, aircraft carrier, or an air station on shore.
America’s Navy can count on these professionals to rapidly resupply its ships with ammunition while underway anywhere in the world.