MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Petty Officer 1st Class Michael Cruz, a native of Mira Mesa, California, serves the U.S. Navy aboard USS Portland, a U.S. Navy San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship.
“I joined the Navy to better myself as a person, travel, receive free college, and serve my country,” said Cruz.
Today, Cruz serves as a yeoman.
As an administrative assistant, ship's secretary I work directly for the commanding officer,” said Cruz. “I edit, finalize and publish all daily correspondence, directives and awards onboard USS Portland.”
Growing up in Mira Mesa, Cruz attended Mira Mesa High School and graduated in 2007 and a 2010 Miramar College graduate. Today, Cruz uses the same skills and values learned in Mira Mesa to succeed in the military.
“As a local in Mira Mesa that has worked several jobs in San Diego before joining the Navy, I've learned that there is no shortcut to success and in life,” said Cruz. “With hard work, dedication and taking the time to perfect my craft, there's no task that I can't excel at and no goal I can't reach. I apply this work ethic and logic in everything that I do in the Navy.”
USS Portland is named after the U.S. city of Portland, Oregon. The ship is designed to transport Marines and their equipment.
According to Navy officials, amphibious transport dock ships are warships that embark, transport and land elements of a landing force for a variety of expeditionary warfare missions.
Serving in the Navy means Cruz is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
While there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Cruz is most proud of earning an awards.
“My proudest naval accomplishment was when I was awarded Naval Base Kitsap's Sailor of the Quarter and Sailor of the Year for fiscal year 2018,” said Cruz. “I've also received one Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, four Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and two flag letters of commendation.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Cruz, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“Serving in the Navy means everything to me,” said Cruz. “I'm able to provide for my wife and future children, learn something new every day, receive free college, and get paid to travel around the world to places I wouldn't have imagined I'd be. I'm proud to serve my country and am so thankful to be part of the Navy.”
“Serving in the Navy means everything to me,” said Cruz. “I'm able to provide for my wife and future children, learn something new every day, receive free college, and get paid to travel around the world to places I wouldn't have imagined I'd be. I'm proud to serve my country and am so thankful to be part of the Navy.”