SAN DIEGO - Cmdr. Jennie Hoffen, a native of Battle Creek, Michigan, serves the U.S. Navy and is assigned to Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center (SMWDC), where the Navy’s surface warfighters increase the lethality and tactical proficiency of the Surface Force.
 |
| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joey Sitter, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West |
Hoffen graduated from Lakeview High School in 2005. Additionally, Hoffen earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Baylor University in 2009.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Battle Creek.
“Growing up, I learned the value of hard work,” Hoffen said. “I was a swimmer and I learned a lot of hard work from being on the team and from my coach. They taught me that even when it gets hard, keep pushing through because it’ll be worth it in the end.”
Hoffen joined the Navy 16 years ago. Today, Hoffen serves as a surface warfare officer.
“I joined the Navy to see the world and to get some real world experience,” Hoffen said. “It was between the Navy and the Air Force. My brother was in the Navy, too. The Navy had better locations. I figured in the Air Force, at the time, you just go to the desert on deployment. In the Navy, you get to see more of the world.”
“SMWDC sailors exemplify the dedication, expertise and tactical excellence that drive the lethality of our Surface Force,” said Rear Adm. Wilson Marks, Commander, Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center. “Through their commitment to warfighting innovation and operational proficiency, they strengthen our Navy’s combat readiness and ensure that we remain ready to deter or defeat any adversary when our nation calls.”
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
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.
Hoffen has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I’m proud that I’ve qualified to be the commanding officer of a ship,” Hoffen said. “That encompasses all the hard work I’ve done so far and shows the faith the Navy has in me.”
Hoffen serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Serving in the Navy means teamwork and working together toward a common goal or purpose,” Hoffen said.
Hoffen is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank all of the amazing sailors I’ve served with over the years,” Hoffen added. “I am thankful for all the mentors, both junior and senior, who have helped me along the way and have helped make me into the leader I am today.”