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 Joshua Flores, a native of San Antonio, Texas, is one of these sailors serving at Maritime Security Squadron 2 which is responsible for protecting the Navy’s maritime platforms and port infrastructure.
Flores graduated from John Jay High School in 2008.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in San Antonio.
“I learned the importance of finishing tasks,” said Flores. "When you start something, you have to see it all the way through to the end."
Flores joined the Navy 15 years ago. Today, Flores serves as a master-at-arms.
“I was in sixth grade when 9/11 happened and as we watched the TV coverage that day, I made up my mind to join the military,” said Flores. "My brother was Marine Lance Cpl. Jonathon Flores and he was killed in Iraq in 2005. That re-established my desire to join the military and pushed me toward 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.
Flores 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."
Flores has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest moment came while serving as the training leading petty officer on board USS George H.W. Bush,” said Flores. "I like to teach people, but even more I like them to know why things have to be done a certain way."
Flores can take pride in serving America through military service.
“I have such a sense of pride and honor to be able to continue serving because so many people, like my brother, couldn't finish what they started,” said Flores.
Flores is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“My parents and my wife, Kaitlin, have always stood by me and supported my decisions,” said Flores. "We have been married almost 15 years and she has been amazing in raising our children as the demands of the Navy have taken me away from home."
“I am keeping my options open for life after the Navy, but we are definitely moving back to San Antonio,” added Flores.