• First responders provide escort

After serving on two ships in the Strait of Hormuz, one the USS Abraham Lincoln, Lt. Alex Stephan, returned to Lincoln County for a two week break with his family.

The member of the U.S. Navy  was welcomed back into Kemmerer with a first responder escort Monday, Sept. 21

“It feels really good,” Stephan said of the welcome home and to be with his family, Makayla and Josephine. In addition to the assignment on the Abraham Lincoln he filled responsibilities on the  USS Frankie Peterson Jr.

“I’m the chief engineer on board. My entire job is just to make sure that the ship stays running so we can engage any and all threats and protect the Abraham Lincoln,” he explained.

Referencing his latest assignment, he said, “It’s one of the 11 capital ships for the United States. Yes, it’s a big honor to serve on that.”

“I was the liaison naval officer for my captain,” he added, “who is the air missile defense commander for the entire force out there. I was his representative to enact his vision and his plan to support and defend all the units out there.” The force included the Abraham Lincoln and George Bush and an additional fleet.

Enjoying family and friends at a reception in Fossil Fuel Coffee, he said, “I am not used to this type of reception. I’m used to, like, the ships getting the major type of reception, but not me personally.”

That reception included the Kemmerer Fire Department, Kemmerer/Diamondville Police, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and South Lincoln Medical Center.”

Speaking of his service, Lt. Stephan concluded,  I’m just honored to do it, honestly.”

After time with family, Lt. Stephan will fly back to Pearl Harbor to rejoin his ship and crew.