Navy Gunner’s Mate – GM

A Navy Gunner’s Mate describes the 5-inch weapon system as the largest gun on the ship, noting the physical sensation of firing it. The rate is one of the two oldest in the Navy, responsible for maintaining every type of weapons control system aboard, including small arms and machine guns.

The sailor explains that some weapons, like the 50-caliber and 240 machine guns, are used for close-in defense of the ship, while the 5-inch gun can engage air or surface contacts and support amphibious operations. As a BLS tech, the sailor works on the vertical launching system for missiles, a role requiring additional technical training.

Sources: America's Navy (YouTube)