Littoral combat ships were first introduced more than a decade ago to the naval fleet to increase forward presence and complete diverse missions. Chief Petty Officer Lance Hooker, a fire controlman who is responsible for working on electronic weapon and radar systems, is one of the sailors serving aboard USS Freedom, homeported in San Diego. “My favorite part of my job is being able to travel,” said Hooker. “I have seen places that most people won’t ever get to see in their lifetime. I have traveled to Japan, Hong Kong, Italy and Spain. I have seen places that I never would have seen if it was not for joining the Navy.”
