Ensign Rachel LaBuda, a native of Mount Joy and a 2014 Donegal High School graduate, is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Port Royal.
LaBuda has served in the Navy for five years and is a U.S. Navy surface warfare officer aboard the guided-missile cruiser, operating out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. As a Navy surface warfare officer, LaBuda is responsible for driving warships and ensuring they are properly maintained so the ships are ready to deploy around the world.
Approximately 300 men and women serve aboard the ship. According to Navy officials, their jobs are highly specialized and keep each part of the cruiser running smoothly. They do everything from maintaining gas turbine engines and operating the Aegis weapons system to driving the ship and operating small boats.
Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, LaBuda is most proud of spending four months with the Chilean Navy on its tall ship learning how to sail and visiting different countries in Latin America in 2018.
Serving in the Navy is a continuing tradition of military service for LaBuda, who has family members who have previously served. Her father was a Navy pilot.
Leave a Review