By Rebecca Barnes, Publisher, Prince William Living
Service has many forms in our community. For Petty Officer First Class Vera Bordoh-Ansah, it began in Manassas and now continues with the U.S. Navy in Virginia Beach. She serves with Assault Craft Unit Four, a command that operates air-cushion landing craft designed to move Marines, vehicles, and equipment from ship to shore. These craft support missions around the world and represent a critical part of the Navy’s amphibious strength.
Bordoh-Ansah is a graduate of Stonewall Jackson High School’s Class of 2018. She is now studying toward an associate degree in health sciences through Western Governors University. She describes her time growing up in Manassas as preparation for military life. She said she learned to work with people from many backgrounds, developing flexibility and teamwork.
Seven years ago, she chose the Navy because she wanted to see more of the world. She works today as an electronics technician, a rating responsible for keeping essential systems running. Her path to service became a family connection as well, since her identical twin sister serves in the United States Air Force and is pursuing a career in military medicine.
ACU Four supplies landing craft that combine high speed, maneuverability, and the capability to travel over water and land for transport missions. These craft move personnel, supplies, and vehicles during operations and training.
The Navy is marking its 250th birthday in 2025. Navy leadership describes the service as a force that has defended maritime freedom for two and a half centuries. More information about the anniversary is available at Navy.mil.
Rebecca Barnes is the publisher of Prince William Living and a longtime voice for community engagement, volunteerism, and local storytelling.