Bristol Native Serving On Guided-Missile Destroyer

By Lt. Jill Ryan, Navy Office of Community Outreach

A 2006 Bristol Senior High School graduate and Bristol Borough native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided-missile destroyer, USS Michael Murphy.

Petty Officer 1st Class Peter Lancieri is an operations specialist aboard the forward-deployed Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer operating out of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.

A Navy operations specialist is responsible for helicopter air controller safety of flight and in charge of the surface rescue swimmer on board.

“I am involved in all three warfare areas and I have a lot of knowledge in a lot of different areas rather than just one individual job,” said Lancieri. “It is awesome to be aboard the namesake ship of Michael Murphy. I find it an honor and privilege to be able to serve on this particular ship.”

USS Michael Murphy, measures approximately 500 feet and is powered by four gas turbines that allow the destroyer to achieve more than 30 mph in open seas.

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 warfighting expertise and operational flexibility to execute any tasking overseas.

“Our Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific guided-missile destroyers are poised, trained, equipped and ready to deploy forward and support the Fleet,” said Rear Adm. John Fuller, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific. “Working with friends and allies, our MIDPAC sailors provide sea control, advance maritime security, enhance regional stability, and foster continued prosperity in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.”

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.

“There is everything to love about Hawaii,” said Lancieri. “You can see far below you in the water. I love to do our man overboard missions because I get a chance to jump into the water and enjoy it,”

Challenging living conditions build strong fellowship among the crew, Navy officials explained. The crew is highly motivated, and quickly adapt to changing conditions. It is a busy life of specialized work, watches, and drills.

“Serving in the Navy means that you have camaraderie,” said Lancieri. “I didn’t know what to expect and it’s crazy how much our job is a part of the show of force to show that we can maintain safety at home and abroad.”