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 Kyle Adams, a native of Gillette, Wyoming, is one of these sailors serving at Maritime Security Squadron 2 which is responsible for protecting the Navy’s maritime platforms and port infrastructure.
Adams graduated from Campbell County High School in 2012.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Gillette.
“I learned the importance of teamwork playing sports,” said Adams. "I also learned the value of critical thinking and stress management. These skills continue to help me in the Navy."
Adams joined the Navy four years ago. Today, Adams serves as a master-at-arms.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to continue to serve,” said Adams. "Before joining the Navy, I was a firefighter, an EMT. When I was growing up a lot of folks rallied around my family when my mother was fighting cancer, so I was interested in giving back.”
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.
Adams 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."
Adams has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I was recognized as the 'Top Shot' during the expeditionary designated marksman course,” said Adams. "The 'Top Shot' is awarded to the person who achieves the highest score in the course."
Adams can take pride in serving America through military service.
“The Navy offers an opportunity to continue serving others,” said Adams.
Adams is continuing a family tradition of military service.
“"My grandfather was in the Navy during World War II, and my other grandfather served in the National Guard,” said Adams.
Adams is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I'd like to thank my football coaches, teachers and others who came together to help me and my brother when my mom passed away,” added Adams. "I had just graduated high school and my brother was entering his junior year. Their support inspired me to a lifetime of service."
“The Navy offers an opportunity to continue serving others,” said Adams.
Adams is continuing a family tradition of military service.
“"My grandfather was in the Navy during World War II, and my other grandfather served in the National Guard,” said Adams.
Adams is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I'd like to thank my football coaches, teachers and others who came together to help me and my brother when my mom passed away,” added Adams. "I had just graduated high school and my brother was entering his junior year. Their support inspired me to a lifetime of service."