VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – The U.S. Navy owns many large submarines, ships and aircraft carriers that need to be protected when operating at sea and close to the shore. A special group of sailors is charged with protecting these Navy investments.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Klineizquierdo |
The Maritime Expeditionary Security Force (MESF) operates ashore, at sea and in the waters of harbors, rivers, bays and across the littorals. The primary focus of MESF is to conduct maritime security operations. They do this by providing port and harbor security as well as security for high-value units, like aircraft carriers and submarines, on coastal waterways and ashore.
Seaman Jonathan Leach, a native of Alamogordo, New Mexico, is one of these sailors serving at Maritime Security Squadron 2 which is responsible for protecting the Navy’s maritime platforms and port infrastructure.
Leach graduated from Alamogordo High School in 2022.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Alamogordo.
“I learned the importance of a strong work ethic,” said Leach. “I worked before joining the Navy and learned that hard work will pay off. I carried this lesson with me into the military.”
Leach joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Leach serves as an information systems technician.
“I joined the Navy for the experiences,” said Leach. “I wasn't ready to go to college and I knew from other members of my family that there were lots of opportunities in the military.”
Leach is continuing a family tradition of military service.
“My dad, Michael, and my Uncle Dave were both in the Navy,” said Leach. “My older sister, Brittany, and her husband, Kristopher, are both in the Navy stationed in San Diego. I also have a sister, named Emily, who just completed her time in the Navy.”
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 recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Leach serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
"We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day," said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. "Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs."
Leach has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I was recently awarded the Bluejacket of the Quarter in 2023,” said Leach. “It felt like what I do was getting noticed and I was honored by those who chose to recognize me.”
Leach can take pride in serving America through military service.
“I get to wake up every day and get to do something most people don't have a chance to do,” said Leach. “Being able to put on this uniform, knowing I'm serving something larger than myself, is an honor.”
Leach is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my dad, Michael Leach, and my mom, Priscilla Taylor, for raising me the way they did so that I have a good head on my shoulders when I made it out on my own,” added Leach. “I also want to thank Michelle and Anthony Vidal, for making me feel like a welcome member of their family. Of course, I want to thank my wife, Elexa, for supporting me in my Navy career.”