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.
Petty Officer 1st Class Hunter Snow, a native of Almont, Michigan, is one of these sailors serving at Maritime Security Squadron 2 which is responsible for protecting the Navy’s maritime platforms and port infrastructure.
Snow graduated from Imlay City High School in 2010.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Almont.
“My hometown taught me the importance of working as a team,” said Snow. “I played team sports and worked at car manufacturing plants and farms, where our teams often faced being understaffed. We had to work closely together as a cohesive unit.”
Snow joined the Navy 12 years ago. Today, Snow serves as a boatswain's mate.
“I joined the Navy because my brother serves, and his passion for the service inspired me to join,” said Snow. “I also wanted to be a part of a team.”
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.
Snow 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."
Snow has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is being a patrol leader,” said Snow. “It's incredibly rewarding to work through challenges; it carries significant weight, engaging people and making sure they are taken care of.”
Snow can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy gives me a sense of purpose,” said Snow. “Being able to serve my country gives me a feeling of pride, selflessness and camaraderie.”
Snow is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my mom, Sandra, my dad, Gerald, and my brother, Jesse,” said Snow. “My mom and dad instilled a strong work ethic in me. My brother pushed me a lot; he’s a boatswain’s mate too, so he is always on my case. I feel like it makes me a better person.”
“I would also like to thank my wife and kids,” added Snow. “They have been my rock for the past eight years and I don’t know where I would be without them.”