As a ship's serviceman (SH) you will be involved in the daily operation of the retail and service activities of an afloat or ashore supply department. SHs can be tasked to perform the duties of a laundryman, barber, ship's store operator, holding location custodian, or records keeper. In addition, it is important for you to start early in your career to assume the added responsibilities of being a supervisor of a retail or service activity. The varied supply demands of the operating forces and shore establishments of the Navy require procurement, storage, and a distribution system with a scope unequaled in the commercial world. The term "supply system" is used to describe the integrated activity of the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) that procures, holds, and issues materials to the operating forces and shore activities.

The terrifying new role of technology in a world at war

Kenneth J. Hagan pulls the curtain back for American civilians as he shares a sweeping account of the country’s naval experience. Including the wooden Continental Navy to contemporary projections of the service’s high-tech mission in the next century, The People’s Navy shares the complete making and growth of America’s sea power. “…provides a clear, interesting, and through-provoking introduction to the history of the American sea power and should be read by all historians of the United States… This book will provide standard interpretation for a long time to come.” – Reviews in American History