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 2nd Class Kevin Leon, a native of Windsor, California, is one of these sailors serving at Maritime Security Squadron 2 which is responsible for protecting the Navy’s maritime platforms and port infrastructure.
Leon graduated from Windsor High School in 2014.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Windsor.
“My hometown taught me how to interact with diverse groups of people,” said Leon. “In Windsor, everyone is very close and that has helped me work with a lot of different people.”
Leon joined the Navy four years ago. Today, Leon serves as a gunner's mate.
“I joined the Navy to be able to see the world,” said Leon. “I also wanted to broaden my horizons and start a career.”
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.
Leon 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."
Leon has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is getting all my qualifications,” said Leon. “Getting my qualifications allowed me to get out of my comfort zone and carry some leadership responsibilities.”
Leon can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means I can put myself in a position where I am needed,” said Leon. “I have been able to help others all over the world. Serving in the Navy has also allowed me to face challenges head-on and grow as a person.”
Leon is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my mom, Maria Inez Deluna Sierra,” added Leon. “She raised me by herself and taught me to give 100% to everything. She also taught me that it’s ok to fail; we just have to learn and keep going. If I fail a certain drill, I can learn from my mistakes and become a better sailor.”