Stuart takes part in amphibious exercise, named sailor of month

Amanda J. Stuart, along with other sailors and Marines on board the USS Boxer, recently participated in an amphibious operations training exercise off the coast of southern California.

As a photographer, Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Stuart shoots, develops and distributes photography. She was recognized as sailor of the month in her department during October.

"I take photos for operations and for intelligence purposes," said Stuart, the 20-year-old daughter of Harold Hyden and Becky Hyden, both of Jackson.

The training exercise gave Stuart and the crew of the Boxer a chance to gain more experience working with the 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment.

"It let us practice and train for real life events," Stuart said.

The exercise not only provided technical training, but helped the crew prepare for Operation Enduring Freedom and the war on terrorism.

Stuart is a 2000 graduate of Jackson High School and two-year Navy veteran.