NORFOLK, Va. - Airman Lacey Truxel, a native of Buckeye, Arizona, supports versatile missions while serving at Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 2.
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| Photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Terah Bryant, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
Truxel joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Truxel serves as an aviation boatswain's mate.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to go to college and the Navy has programs to help you do that,” said Truxel.
Truxel attended Buckeye Union High School and graduated in 2020.
Skills and values similar to those found in Buckeye are similar to those required to succeed in the military.
“I learned to cherish memories and cherish what I have in Buckeye,” said Truxel. “I try to live in the moment and not stress over things that aren't important.”
These lessons have helped Truxel while serving with the Navy.
Members of HSC 2 fly and maintain helicopters for the U.S. Navy. Navy helicopters are able to perform many different missions. In general, some of the most common operations include search and rescue, air assaults, medical evacuations, supply transport and hunting submarines.
This year commemorates 50 years of women flying in the U.S. Navy. In 1973, the first eight women began flight school in Pensacola; one year later six of them, known as "The First Six," earned their “Wings of Gold.” Over the past 50 years, the Navy has expanded its roles for women to lead and serve globally and today our women aviators project power from the sea in every type of Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard aircraft. Our Nation and our Navy is stronger because of their service.
As a member of the Navy, Truxel is part of a world-class organization focused on maintaining maritime dominance, strengthening partnerships, increasing competitive warfighting capabilities and sustaining combat-ready forces in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“We protect the freedom of the ocean,” said Truxel. "We're a huge deterrent against threats around the world."
With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.
"Our mission remains timeless - to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level," said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. "This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy."
Truxel and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“I had my son while I've been in the Navy,” said Truxel. "I met my husband in the Navy also. If it wasn't for the military, I wouldn't have my family."
As Truxel and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Serving in the Navy means everything to me,” said Truxel. "People put their trust in my hands. What we do is so important, and I'm proud to serve the country that I serve."
Truxel is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my family for their support and my husband as well,” added Truxel. "My husband is also in the Navy, and we learn from each other."