SAN DIEGO - Airman Recruit Tyler Grossman, a native of Battle Ground, Washington, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35.
Grossman graduated from River HomeLink High School in 2023.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Battle Ground.
“Growing up, I learned the importance of discipline, patience and leadership,” Grossman said. “Each of those three things has helped me in my service in the Navy. It takes discipline to wake up, get here and get through the daily grind. I learned I needed to have patience with other people and with myself as I’m learning my new job and getting the hang of it. Having leadership skills means I’m able to help those around me. I’m also developing problem-solving skills.”
Grossman joined the Navy five months ago. Today, Grossman serves as an aviation maintenance administrationman.
“I joined the Navy mainly for a good career and to make my sister proud,” Grossman said. “I wanted to see the world, so I chose the Navy. I also wanted to be a pilot.”
Members of HSM 35 fly and maintain the MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, the Navy’s most advanced rotary wing maritime strike platform. The Navy MH-60R is able to perform many different missions. Some of the most common operations include strikes on maritime targets, submarine hunting and attack, electronic warfare, search and rescue, medical evacuations and supply support.
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.
Grossman has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I’m proud that I’m able to be here to make a good impression on my mentors with my work ethic,” Grossman said.
Grossman 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 I’m serving my country, but it also means having an honorable job and an honorable career path,” Grossman said.
Grossman is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my mom, Melissa, for helping me get through boot camp,” Grossman added.
Grossman aspires to take advantage of the Navy’s Seaman to Admiral (STA) 21 program, which provides highly qualified enlisted sailors with the opportunity to go to college and earn a commission as naval officers.