A Newport News, Virginia, native is serving aboard USS Iwo Jima, a U.S. Navy Wasp class amphibious assault ship.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Khala Downing serves as an aviation boatswain’s mate.
Aviation boatswain's mate’s ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all Navy aircraft. They supervise every turn, tow and park, and secure the aircraft to the deck.
