Nekoosa Native Serving Aboard USS Iwo Jima

Saturday, August 21st, 2021 -- 11:01 AM

A Nekoosa, Wisconsin, native is serving aboard USS Iwo Jima, a U.S. Navy Wasp-class amphibious assault ship.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Sean Dolan is a 2019 Assumption High School graduate. Today, Dolan serves as a Navy quartermaster. "There is a scene in 'Pirates of the Caribbean' where Jack Sparrow is moving his hand along a chart with a compass to learn how he must venture," said Dolan.

"The image is an idealized view of what a quartermaster does, but with more frequency. We are responsible for seeing to it that the ship both knows where it is going, and arrives there in a timely and safe fashion, paying attention to any communications that must go on between us and other vessels."

Dolan joined the Navy two years ago because of his literary role models service. "As one who delves the pages in search of practical wisdom and idealized people to replicate, one quality that I find to admire, staining the image of the great man if it is not there, is military service," said Dolan.

"Tolkien, Kennedy, Tolstoy, Bolivar, Holmes and Menelik, all famed for different things, had their image heightened in my mind by the service they offered in the military. If I wish to be as they were, I must serve. Perhaps the public would not be so pleased, but for myself, I joined. Of course it offers many benefits, that are necessary, given the difference between my dreams and capability."

According to Dolan, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Nekoosa. "I learned that what I want to do can generally be achieved if I place my will in its direction, and only if I do this." said Dolan. 

Iwo Jima is the seventh Wasp-class amphibious assault ship and the second ship in the U.S. Navy to bear that name. The ship was named for the Battle of Iwo Jima of World War II.

According to Navy officials, amphibious assault ships are designed to deliver U.S. Marines and their equipment where they are needed to support a variety of missions ranging from amphibious assaults to humanitarian relief efforts.

Designed to be versatile, the ship has the option of simultaneously using helicopters, Harrier jets, and Landing Craft Air Cushioned, as well as conventional landing craft and assault vehicles in various combinations.

Though there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Dolan is most proud of becoming a rescue swimmer.

"Becoming a rescue swimmer was the goal I set for myself after bootcamp," said Dolan. "I went from not knowing how to swim laps to graduating the school. It is one of the things I really desired to do and I accomplished it."

"I think a bigger accomplishment, however, is maintaining my work ethic to continue to learn, read books and take classes," added Dolan. "Even more so, I am proud of making friends, and not just friends but very good friends who care for you not just in regards to the Navy, but for your well-being, future and soul. Most of all, I have not lost my faith in God."

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Dolan, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance.

Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.

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