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 Caitlin Perdue, a native of Miamisburg, Ohio, is one of these sailors serving at Maritime Security Squadron 2 which is responsible for protecting the Navy’s maritime platforms and port infrastructure.
Perdue graduated from Miamisburg High School in 2003.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Miamisburg.
“I'm from a blue-collar area, so the importance of hard work was instilled in me,” said Perdue. "Growing up, I also learned a strong sense of pride in my country and my family.”
Perdue joined the Navy 18 years ago. Today, Perdue serves as a master-at-arms.
“Before the Navy, I was a firefighter and EMT,” said Perdue. "I was heavily influenced by 9/11 and wanted to find a way to serve. The military offered a way to continue that service."
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.
Perdue 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."
Perdue has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is making chief petty officer,” said Perdue. "With this rank I get to do so much more and help so many more people."
Perdue can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy is continuing a tradition of military service,” said Perdue. "Every generation has included at least one member of my family in service. My grandfather was in World War II and my uncle was in the Army. We believe in giving back to a country that's given so much to us."
Perdue is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I'd like to thank my mother, Teri Trimm, and my grandmother, Ada Johnson, for encouraging me to branch out and do my own thing,” added Perdue. "They gave me my work ethic and sense of loyalty."