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 2nd Class Odera Obikwelu, a native of Brooklyn, New York, is one of these sailors serving at Maritime Security Squadron 2 which is responsible for protecting the Navy’s maritime platforms and port infrastructure.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Brooklyn.
“My hometown taught me to be tough when facing challenges,” said Obikwelu. “It taught me that tough times don’t always last, but tough people do.”
Obikwelu joined the Navy eight years ago. Today, Obikwelu serves as a yeoman.
“I joined the Navy to travel the world and see different places,” said Obikwelu. “Additionally, I knew I wasn't immediately ready to go to college, and I thought joining the Navy would help me get my feet wet with the world.”
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.
Obikwelu 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."
Obikwelu has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is getting my Blue Nose Certificate,” said Obikwelu. “It is an award given to sailors who cross the Arctic Circle. Not a lot of people get the opportunity to do something that significant, so it definitely means a lot to me.”
Obikwelu can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means playing an important role in our nation’s security,” said Obikwelu. “We are the first line of defense against attacks because we are deployable anywhere, anytime, in many different facets. It is important to execute the mission, but it is equally important not to lose yourself to it. Remember to wear the uniform and not let the uniform wear you. If you do that, serving in the Navy will make memories and you will be able to retire happily.”
Obikwelu is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my dad, Emenike, my mom, Ethel, and my pastor, Eric, who have always been supportive spiritually and helped me stay grounded,” added Obikwelu. “They have all been very supportive of my decision to join the Navy and always believed that I would be successful.”