Pinoy aboard USS Charleston revisits hometown as warship docks in Manila

A Filipino serving aboard the US Navy littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18) revisited his hometown of Manila as the Independence-class vessel docked in the city this month.

According to a report by Petty Officer 2nd Class Adam Butler of the Navy Office of Community Outreach, Command Senior Chief Donald Alvarado was born and raised in the Philippines before moving to Tucson, Arizona.

From there, Alvarado graduated from high school in 1996. He moved back to the Philippines to study at the De La Salle University.

Alvarado then moved back to the United States to join the US Navy in 1999.

“Initially, I joined for free education and the opportunity to travel the world... But in reality, I wanted to be disciplined, I wanted to be challenged, and I wanted to be able to do my best and be part of something bigger than myself,” Alvarado explained.

Alvarado currently serves as the Command Senior Enlisted Leader of the USS Charleston.

Alvarado said he functions as the direct advisor to the Commanding Officer on the formulation and implementation of policies, morale and welfare, command climate, training, and enforcement of good order and discipline for the USS Charleston's Gold Crew.

USS Charleston arrived in Manila on August 16, the first time a commissioned US Navy warship has visited the Philippines since 2019, according to the US naval unit.

With the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, the visit was made contactless with the crew just remaining on board. The crew members were able to rest as the ship's supplies were replenished.

"Unfortunately, we were not able to see much of what Philippines has to offer due to COVID-19 restrictions currently in place, but overall, I am humbled and appreciative of the opportunity given to us to visit the Philippines,” Alvarado said.

“I am ecstatic to be from the Philippines and to be visiting my home town for a port visit... I am reminded of what I was taught prior to joining from my elders- toughness, humility and to be happy. Combining that with what I have learned since I joined the Navy 22 years ago, I know to appreciate the things that really matter the most- your family, friends, and shipmates. These are the people that keep me afloat," Alvarado said.

On July 30, Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana announced that President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the retraction of the termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement with the US.  — DVM, GMA News