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 Tandis Yegan, a native of Las Vegas, Nevada, is one of these sailors serving at Maritime Security Squadron 2 which is responsible for protecting the Navy’s maritime platforms and port infrastructure.
Yegan graduated from Palo Verde High School in 2012.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Las Vegas.
“I was working at the Mandalay Bay hotel during the mass shooting on October 1, 2017, and when I saw everyone quickly come together with the first responders and help each other out, I knew I had to help too,” said Yegan. "Being in the Navy requires that same kind of compassion and desire to help other people. You have to have that kind of unity and cohesiveness in the Navy to succeed."
Yegan joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Yegan serves as a master-at-arms.
“I came to America from Iran when I was eight years old,” said Yegan. "This country has been good to me and serving in the Navy is my way of giving back and setting a good example for my younger brother, David."
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.
Yegan 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."
Yegan has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I'm proud of being named Junior Sailor of the Year at MSRON for 2023,” said Yegan. "When I was receiving that award, it felt good that I was recognized for accomplishing everything that was asked of me.”
Yegan can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means that I am part of something bigger than me,” said Yegan. "Every day when I wake up and put this uniform on I am proud."
Yegan is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I have to thank my mom for always supporting me and doing everything to bring me here to this country,” said Yegan.
“When I do leave the Navy, I would like to return to Las Vegas and become a police officer and eventually a detective,” added Yegan. "In the meantime, I am going to continue serving this country I love with honor."