NORFOLK, Va. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Rodrigo David, a native of San Diego, California, serves aboard a U.S. Navy warship operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Beverly Taylor, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
David graduated in 2012 from Samuel F.B. Morse High School.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in San Diego.
“In my hometown, I learned to respect everyone no matter what background they come from,” said David. “San Diego is a melting pot, so you have to respect others and that sentiment is mutual.”
David joined the Navy five years ago. Today, David serves as an operations specialist aboard USS Ross.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to make a change in my life,” said David. “I have no regrets about my decision to join.”
Ross, a guided-missile destroyer, provides a wide range of warfighting capabilities in multi-threat air, surface and subsurface environments.
A destroyer is a multi-mission ship that can operate independently or as part of a larger group of ships at sea. The ship is equipped with tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns and a phalanx close-in weapons system.
More than 300 sailors serve aboard Ross. Their jobs are highly specialized, requiring both dedication and skill. Their jobs range from maintaining engines to handling weaponry, alongside a multitude of other assignments that keep the ship mission-ready at all times, according to Navy officials.
Serving in the Navy means David 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.
“The Navy contributes to national defense by keeping our country and our allies safe,” said David. “It is important to our security that we keep our adversaries in check by being present on a global scale.”
With 90% 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.
David has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is helping others achieve their goals everyday,” said David. “Seeing others fulfill their desired path is extremely rewarding.”
As David and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the U.S. Navy.
“Serving in the Navy means I get to help others in need,” said David. “I play a necessary role in completing the mission and protecting my country.”
David is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my mom, dad and Kevin Ibanez, along with the entire Ibanez family,” added David. “They helped me through my first year in the Navy. They keep me level-headed and motivated.”