NORFOLK, Va. - Airman Tanner Ward, a native of Folsom, California, 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 |
Ward joined the Navy nearly two years ago. Today, Ward serves as an aviation rescue swimmer.
“I joined the Navy to serve for those who couldn't,” said Ward. "I wanted to protect others and be part of something bigger than myself."
Ward attended Folsom High School and graduated in 2018.
Skills and values similar to those found in Folsom are similar to those required to succeed in the military.
“I learned in Folsom to always think about the bigger picture and not to sweat the little things too much,” said Ward. "Sometimes, especially in an aircraft, you can get very fixated on minute tasks, but the overall mission and the safety of the crew is the priority."
These lessons have helped Ward 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, Ward 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.
“Maritime operations are essential to keeping our borders secure,” said Ward. "The Navy protects the United States and freedom of the seas abroad."
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."
Ward and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“Passing rescue swimmer school was a huge accomplishment for me,” said Ward. "It was a great time. I loved it."
As Ward and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“I feel like I've gained new brothers and sisters since joining the Navy,” said Ward. "We serve together to protect the United States."
Ward is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my parents,” added Ward. "They keep in touch and encourage me and help me stay focused on the big picture. They remind me that the overall job is to serve."