Bath, Maine — A 2010 South Royalton High School graduate is serving as part of the Pre Commissioning Unit for the future USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116), one of the Navy’s first “stealth ships.”

Petty Officer 3rd Class Jeffery Russell is a gunner’s mate assigned to DDG 116 in Bath. Russell is responsible for cleaning and maintaining all of the ship’s weapons and making sure they are always ready for action.

“I get to shoot the guns and educate others on how to properly and safely handle weapons,” said Russell. “It’s a pretty good gig.”

Russell said that the same qualities that helped him through high school in The Upper Valley now guide him through each day on the 500-foot-long ship.

“I’ve always been one to be polite and sport a smile,” said Russell. “It helps you, and others, get through the day.”

Russell, whose grandfather served in the Army during the Korean War, said that he is proud to have been promoted to third class petty officer.

“It’s the next step in my career, and it comes with more responsibilities,” he said. “Short term goals add up to a successful career.”

DDG 116 is expected to be commissioned later this year as part of the Arleigh Burke class of destroyers. These ships are fast, maneuverable and technically advanced, making them important for combat and humanitarian missions.

Right now, construction of the ship is 98 percent complete and it is undergoing testing and trials in Maine. Russell said that being among the first crew to work the ship has been rewarding.

“I get quite a sense of accomplishment by serving in the Navy,” Russell said. “It has always been my dream. Here I am now doing it.”