VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Lt. Patrick Russell, a native of South Bend, Indiana, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, which operates the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet.
Russell graduated from Mishawaka Marian High School in 2011.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in South Bend.
“My hometown taught me how to be a team leader and a team member,” said Russell. “Playing football in high school taught me the value of teamwork and putting the team before myself. St. Joseph Mishawaka Hospital kickstarted my passion for medicine. I owe a lot to the people of South Bend.”
Russell joined the Navy four years ago. Today, Russell serves as a medical officer.
“I started to really consider joining the Navy after I got into medical school,” said Russell. “I have always wanted to join and if medical school didn't work out, I would go active duty. Eventually, I figured, 'why not both?’ Since then, the Navy has given me plenty of good experiences.”
The Super Hornet is one of the most advanced aircraft in the world, according to Navy officials. The aircraft take off from and land aboard Navy aircraft carriers at sea and are capable of conducting air-to-air combat as well as striking targets on land.
Navy aircraft carriers are designed for a 50-year service life. When the air wing is embarked, the ship carries more than 70 attack fighter jets, helicopters and other aircraft, all of which take off from and land aboard the carrier at sea. With more than 5,000 sailors serving aboard, the aircraft carrier is a self-contained mobile airport.
Aircraft carriers are often the first response to a global crisis because of their ability to operate freely in international waters anywhere on the world’s oceans.
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.
Russell 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."
Russell has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy was during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Russell. “We were still learning how to handle the virus, but I was still able to care for service members, retirees and their families. Knowing that I was able to handle that situation gives me the confidence to be able to deal with more difficult and stressful times.”
Russell can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy allows me to support my country and community,” said Russell. “I see being in the military as a way to express my appreciation. I'm proud to satisfy my desire to serve. I have had the privilege of taking care of the coolest and hardest-working people I have ever met. I'm grateful to have experienced things I would have never expected being in the medical field, such as getting catapulted off an aircraft carrier in an F-18 fighter jet.”
Russell is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my wife who has moved with me seven times going back to when I started medical school,” added Russell. “I would also like to thank my mom, dad and entire family. They have instilled every positive attribute I have, and I wouldn't be the same person without them.”