Senior Chief Petty Officer Jessie Quarterman Jr., a native of Cordele, Georgia, serves aboard USS Carney, currently deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.
Quarterman was aboard the ship on Oct. 19, when the crew of Carney shot down multiple land-attack cruise missiles and unmanned aerial drones launched by Houthi forces in Yemen while the ship was operating in the northern Red Sea, sparking national attention. The ship has since then engaged many hostile airborne threats throughout its deployment.
“Joining the Navy, I had always wanted to be able to maintain peace and throughout this deployment, I was able to do that,” Quarterman says. “Supporting the mission means that all my loved ones back home will continue to be afforded the opportunity to keep seeking out the American dream. Partaking in this mission has shown me what it means and what it takes to fight selflessly for peace.”
While on watch as Anti-Air Warfare Commander and Ballistic Missile Defense Commander aboard Carney, Quarterman demonstrated superb employment of Carney’s Weapons System, which was critical to the neutralization of many hostile land attack cruise missiles and one-way attack unmanned aerial vehicles. His diligent efforts greatly enhanced the safety and defense of coalition communities within the area of operations.
According to Cmdr. Jeremy Robertson, Carney’s commanding officer, crewmembers like Quarterman make all the difference in these engagements.
“We train to go into harm’s way,” Robertson said. “Our ship’s motto is ‘Resolute, Committed, Successful’ and on that day, the Carney crew lived up to those three words. It’s an honor to be the Commanding officer of every single sailor aboard this ship.”
Carney’s deployment helps ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.
“The mission allows nations globally to have the freedom of navigation to support trade and commerce worldwide ensuring a stable world economy,” said Quarterman.
Arleigh Burke-class destroyers such as Carney are outfitted with the world’s most sophisticated weaponry systems. They further strengthen the U.S. Navy’s contribution to national security by deterring potential adversaries and protecting vital assets.
The U.S. Navy is engaged, postured, and ready with credible force to assure, deter, and defend in an increasingly complex security environment. Our primary goal is to contribute to a peaceful, stable, and conflict-free region through the combined naval power of our allies and partners.
