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 1st Class Melinda Moore, a native of Monroeville, 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.
Moore graduated from Gateway Senior High School in 2010. Additionally, Moore is working towards a bachelor’s degree in human resource management at the University of Maryland Global Campus and is projected to graduate in 2026.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Monroeville.
“My family always pushed me to be great and they worked hard to give me the tools I needed to succeed,” said Moore. "They gave me a support system that has been crucial."
Moore joined the Navy 10 years ago. Today, Moore serves as a Navy career counselor.
“I always wanted to join the military,” said Moore. "I joined the Navy because of the job opportunities and the benefits. I love what I do.”
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.
Moore 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."
Moore has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
"My job allows me to help junior and senior sailors and that gives me a great sense of pride,” said Moore. “The greatest satisfaction in my accomplishments comes from being able to help people with their careers.”
Moore can take pride in serving America through military service.
“I love seeing how my family feels about me serving in the Navy,” said Moore. "I am the first person in my family to serve in the military and that distinction does make me proud."
Moore is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my family, my husband, Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Joshua Moore, and my daughters Amara and Brielle, for encouraging me to be better and for motivating me to keep striving for success,” added Moore. "My parents and grandparents have always been happy with my accomplishments, and their continued support helps me to succeed. I don't know what I would do without them."