VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Petty Officer 3rd Class Markus Hacker, a native of Bluffton, Indiana, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, which operates the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet.
 |
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Klineizquierdo |
Hacker graduated from Norwell High School in 2016.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Bluffton.
“My hometown taught me how to communicate effectively,” said Hacker. "Growing up in a small town, you know everyone, and it helps you become a better communicator."
Hacker joined the Navy six years ago. Today, Hacker serves as an aviation ordnanceman.
“I joined the Navy because I made a promise to my grandma that I would get out of our small town and see the world,” said Hacker. "After she passed away, I thought it was important to honor my promise to her, so I joined the Navy."
The Super Hornet is one of the most advanced aircraft in the world, according to Navy officials. The aircraft take off from and land aboard Navy aircraft carriers at sea and are capable of conducting air-to-air combat as well as striking targets on land.
Navy aircraft carriers are designed for a 50-year service life. When the air wing is embarked, the ship carries more than 70 attack fighter jets, helicopters and other aircraft, all of which take off from and land aboard the carrier at sea. With more than 5,000 sailors serving aboard, the aircraft carrier is a self-contained mobile airport.
Aircraft carriers are often the first response to a global crisis because of their ability to operate freely in international waters anywhere on the world’s oceans.
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.
Hacker 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."
Hacker has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is the level of maturity that I have seen in myself,” said Hacker. "The Navy has helped me grow as a person and leader."
Hacker can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy gives me the opportunity to defend my country,” said Hacker. "It has also given me the opportunity to have a meaningful career."
Hacker is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my father Jamie and Gunner Scott Hield,” said Hacker. "They have pushed me and helped me to keep the drive to stay in the Navy."
“I would like to offer advice to someone coming from a small town because I wouldn’t have joined without a push,” added Hacker. "It is important to get out of your comfort zone and experience things you normally wouldn’t. It can provide you with something invaluable."