Prospect native serves aboard U.S. Navy floating airport in Japan

YOKOSUKA, Japan – Capt. Justin Issler, a native of Prospect, serves in Japan aboard the self-contained mobile airport and the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan.

Equipped with a full flight deck and more than 60 aircraft including attack fighter jets and helicopters, aircraft carriers are one of the largest warships in the world.

Issler attended Elgin High School and graduated in 1996.

Issler joined the Navy 22 years ago.

“I joined the Navy because I wanted to fly,” said Issler. “I also have family that served as well.”

Today, Issler serves as the executive officer aboard USS Ronald Reagan.

He said skills and values learned in the Navy are similar to those found in Prospect.