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.
Senior Chief Petty Officer Blake Kincaid, a native of Etowah, Tennessee, is one of these sailors serving at Maritime Security Squadron 2 which is responsible for protecting the Navy’s maritime platforms and port infrastructure.
Kincaid graduated from McMinn Central High School in 2004.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Etowah.
“My hometown instilled a strong work ethic in me. It’s a small town so everyone has to put in hard work and dedication to succeed,” said Kincaid. “My parents raised me in a way where I had to earn everything. Growing up with them I learned that success doesn’t just happen by chance. It requires dedication, effort and willingness to make sacrifices.”
Kincaid joined the Navy 18 years ago. Today, Kincaid serves as a master-at-arms.
“I always joke and say I joined the Navy out of boredom and here I am 18 years later,” said Kincaid. “But the real reason I joined was to broaden my horizons and set career goals to strive towards.”
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.
Kincaid 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."
Kincaid has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is getting promoted to senior chief petty officer,” said Kincaid. “It was a very rewarding experience and still is. Getting that promotion validated all the hard work I have put in over the years.”
Kincaid can take pride in serving America through military service.
"Service in the Navy carries a unique purpose that many may not fully grasp,” said Kincaid. “Roughly 1% of our nation's population takes the oath. It's immensely rewarding to understand that you're serving on behalf of the nation and those who may not have the opportunity to join. To those contemplating joining the world's finest navy, I urge you to listen to your heart and answer the call if it aligns with your deepest desires. Serving and protecting the greatest country in the world is a noble endeavor."
Kincaid is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my family, especially my mom, Tammy, and dad, Jeff,” added Kincaid. “They have supported me from day one and I would not be as successful as I am today without them.”