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.
Chief Petty Officer Kody Orkis, a native of Lower Burrell, Pennsylvania, is one of these sailors serving at Maritime Security Squadron 2 which is responsible for protecting the Navy’s maritime platforms and port infrastructure.
Orkis graduated from Burrell High School in 2007.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Lower Burrell.
“My hometown taught me how to work hard,” said Orkis. “It’s a different pace of life in Lower Burrell. It is a mill town, so you have to work hard to earn a living.”
Orkis joined the Navy 16 years ago. Today, Orkis serves as a master-at-arms.
“I’ve always wanted to join the Navy,” said Orkis. “My dad encouraged me to do something different than what was around us. Funny enough, I joined the Navy as a Seabee, so I was not far off from my time working at a welding company in Lower Burrell. Eventually, I changed my job to master-at-arms around eight years ago. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to experience different occupations within the Navy.”
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.
Orkis 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."
Orkis has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is earning the rank of chief petty officer,” said Orkis. “Being a chief is not only about the rank but also about the responsibility I have for the Navy’s mission and my fellow sailors.”
Orkis can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy allows me to put others before myself,” said Orkis. “In the Navy, dedication to duty requires sacrifices. Sometimes you will miss birthdays and family time, but the gratification you get when seeing the end result makes it worthwhile. It's crucial to understand that the Navy is more than just a job; it's a lifestyle. Service demands a lot of patience.”
Orkis is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my mom, dad and entire family,” added Orkis. “They have all constantly supported me throughout my life. I couldn’t have done all this work and still be a functioning person without their continued support.”