(U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Robert S. Price)

PIERCETON — Gunner’s Mate 1st Class Eric Howard, from Pierceton, is currently stationed aboard the USS Porter, a guided missile destroyer stationed in Rota, Spain.

Howard was born in Warsaw but grew up in Pierceton as the son of Lori and Bob Danner. After graduating from Whitko High School in 2007, he joined the Navy and has been there ever since.

“I accredit my experiences growing up in Pierceton and at Whitko High school for giving me the opportunity to develop as a leader and fostering a drive for excellence early,” said Howard.

Howard’s first four-year tour was aboard the USS Lake Champlain (CG-57) a guided missile cruiser stationed in San Diego, Calif., where he worked on the Mk 45 5″ 54 Cal Gun Mount. Next he was stationed with the Coastal Riverine Group 2 in Manama, Bahrain where he worked as a Tactical Supervisor for Navy Riverine Missions. After that, Howard had a three-year tour in Great Lakes, Ill., as the Lead Instructor at Gunner’s Mate Apprentice School.

Now Howard is stationed on the USS Porter. There he serves as a Gunner’s Mate First Class Petty Officer (E-6) and the Leading Petty Officer for Combat Gunnery Division. One of his primary duties is to demonstrate proper weapon handling and marksmanship fundamentals during the ship’s M-16 rifle Qualification shoots. The qualification shoot certifies watchstanders, who are onboard and constantly trained and familiar with any weapon they may be issued.

“The Navy is a hugely challenging yet rewarding experience,” said Howard. “It has given me the opportunity to see the world, become a seasoned leader in high tempo operations and be a successful mentor to junior sailors.”

Howard has recently been selected for promotion to Chief Petty Officer. He’s currently waiting for the Promotion Board to release the final results during the first week of August.

“I would like to say to my family and friends, I miss them and couldn’t do it without their support and enthusiasm,” said Howard. “It’s the letters and emails from back home that make all the difference in morale!”