Courtesy Photo | Brandon Braam, a contract mariner who joined Military Sealift Command in 2009, has...... read more read more
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To at least one member of the USNS Montford Point (ESD 1) crew, the ship is legendary – for many reasons.
“USNS Montford Point is the best ship in the fleet,” declares Brandon Braam, a contract mariner who joined Military Sealift Command in 2009.
The Minnesota native, who has traveled extensively throughout all 50 states, loves being underway, and feels most at home on the Big Island of Hawai’I, says there are several sources of pride when it comes to Montford Point.
First, Braam cites the ship’s namesake as something to boast about. The ship is named in honor of African Americans who trained at Montford Point Camp, NC, during World War II.
Secondly, Braam admires the ship’s important mission.
"USNS Montford Point is the lead ship of her class and the vital cornerstone of the expeditionary transfer dock program.
“Our primary mission is to serve as a ‘pier at sea.'’"
Montford Point is part of Maritime Prepositioning Ships Squadron 3.
“Prepositioning is an essential element in the U.S. military’s readiness strategy,” according to Capt. John Bub, commodore of MPSRON 3.
“Afloat prepositioning strategically places military equipment and supplies aboard ships located in key ocean areas to ensure rapid availability during humanitarian operations or other contingencies.”
Braam explains that the ship's unique design allows Montford Point to submerge part of the main deck and then moor alongside other ships while underway. Crew members then connect a ramp between the two vessels, which enables vehicles and personnel to safely and efficiently move between the two afloat ships, and proceed to or from shore via LCACs. This, combined with Montford Point’s heavy lift and water-making capabilities, allows a great deal of flexibility when it comes to transporting equipment and forces precisely where they need to be to conduct their missions throughout the Indo-Pacific Region.
The esprit de corps on board Montford Point is also something that means a lot to Braam. The crew often pools its resources to make a difference not only when conducting military operations but also closer to home when not underway. Braam has joined fellow contract mariners for a variety of in-port volunteer activities, including wrapping gifts for local children during holidays, participating in beach clean-ups, and supporting public art projects.
All that make the ship special to Braam, but he says there’s also a secret ingredient.
“Morale on board USNS Montford Point is almost always very high, probably because we have the most talented steward in the industry.
“Seriously, he's a legend.”
After earning a bachelor’s degree in finance, Braam worked as a commercial fisherman in the Bering Sea for several years. He then completed the Unlicensed Apprentice Program in Piney Point, Md., and says he “climbed the hawse pipe” as an able bodied seaman before earning his unlimited third mate license. He is now studying for his unlimited chief mate license.
Even after that program is complete, this third mate hopes to continue joyfully serving on board Montford Point with a captain and crew who are committed to teamwork and mission accomplishment.
“E lauhoe mai na wa’a” is a Hawaiian proverb which means ‘everyone paddles together.’
“I am extremely proud of this vessel and her crew. I'd love to work here for the rest of my career,” Braam says.
What are your responsibilities?
As third mate aboard USNS Montford Point, I am assigned to an eight-hour watch every day, mostly on the bridge of the ship yet sometimes out on deck when the vessel is in port. While on watch, I monitor navigation and security, communicate with our crew as well as other vessels, and keep the captain informed of any unexpected changes. While off watch, I’m responsible for the inspection and maintenance of some of the ship’s safety equipment. Additionally, I help familiarize new crew members with life on board the vessel as part of their orientation upon arrival.
Why is this position important?
The officers and crew on watch are the eyes and ears that keep the vessel in position to accomplish the mission. Situational awareness, clear communication, and consistent teamwork directly impact the confidence and safety of everyone involved in the mission.
What's the most difficult or challenging part of your job?
Just like previous generations of seafarers, the most difficult part of my job is being away from friends and family. I do my best to utilize email and phone calls, and I also like to mail postcards. Thankfully, I’m married to the kindest, funniest, most beautiful woman in the world.
What's the most gratifying part of your job?
I love it when a plan comes together. That said, the best parts of my job are exploring the planet, making new friends, and supporting the U.S. military. I’m a happy man when the weather cooperates, the equipment functions properly, the salad bar is fresh, and the coffee is just right.
What would you say to others who may be interested in supporting MSC?
Go for it!! Listen. Work hard every day. Treat everyone and everything with respect. Be flexible. Stay humble. Laugh. Ask your friends and family to please encourage you in this rewarding career, even though it might be very difficult for them when you are on the ship.
| Date Taken: | 04.01.2021 |
| Date Posted: | 04.01.2021 05:34 |
| Story ID: | 391949 |
| Location: | U.S. 7TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY |
| Web Views: | 132 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, MSC Contract Mariner Proud of Ship, Mission, Crew, by Leslie Hull-Ryde, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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