SAN DIEGO - Petty Officer 1st Class Gabriel Almodovar, a native of Harker Heights, Texas, serves aboard a U.S. Navy warship operating out of San Diego, California.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings |
Almodovar joined the Navy six years ago. Today, Almodovar serves as a fire controlman aboard USS Makin Island.
“I joined the Navy to expose myself to new and different opportunities, challenges and locations,” said Almodovar. "I can definitely say in the time I've been in the Navy, I have experienced a lot. Every day is something different."
Growing up in Harker Heights, Almodovar attended Harker Heights High School and graduated in 2016.
Skills and values learned in the Navy are similar to those found in Harker Heights.
“I used to work a summer job repairing people's various electronic devices and what I learned was the importance of quality assurance and ensuring customer satisfaction in my repairs that they could trust to last,” said Almodovar. "This has definitely served me well in the Navy."
These lessons have helped Almodovar while serving aboard Makin Island.
Makin Island is an amphibious assault ship. According to Navy officials, these types of warships embark, transport and land elements of a landing force for a variety of expeditionary warfare missions.
Because of their inherent capabilities, these ships have been and will continue to be called upon to support humanitarian and other contingency missions on short notice.
As a member of the Navy, Almodovar 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.
“The Navy contributes to national defense by giving our nation and ally nations the support and comfort they require to maintain peace and order within all seas.,” said Almodovar.
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.
Almodovar and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“I am most proud of how I have progressed through the ranks in such a short amount of time,” said Almodovar. "I am also proud that my command entrusts me to ensure my equipment works anytime, anywhere, rain or shine."
As Almodovar 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 that I am a part of something bigger than myself,” added Almodovar.
Almodovar is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my parents,” added Almodovar. “They both served in the army and have supported me in my Navy journey."