NORFOLK, Va. - Seaman Arianna Enriquez, a native of El Paso, Texas, serves aboard USS Wasp, a U.S. Navy amphibious assault ship operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Mark Pena, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East |
Enriquez graduated from Montwood High School in 2019.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in El Paso.
“Growing up in my hometown, I learned that you have to work for what you want,” Enriquez said. “That mentality has shaped my Navy career and has helped me push through challenges.”
Enriquez joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Enriquez serves as an operations specialist.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted a better job opportunity and the chance to explore the world,” Enriquez said.
Amphibious assault ships, such as USS Wasp, project power and maintain presence by serving as the cornerstone of the Amphibious Readiness Group / Expeditionary Strike Group.
Resembling a small aircraft carrier, amphibious assault ships offer the Marine Corps with a means of ship-to-shore movement, provide humanitarian assistance and support major combat operations. More than 1,000 serve aboard USS Wasp with an additional 1,200 Marines capable of being embarked.
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.
Enriquez has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I am most proud to be named Blue Jacket of the Quarter and being meritoriously advanced twice,” Enriquez said. “These accomplishments really highlight the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my career.”
Enriquez 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 setting an example for people in my hometown and showing my family that anything is possible,” Enriquez said. “It’s about proving that hard work and determination can lead to great opportunities.”
Enriquez is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my dad for being my role model and inspiration, as well as my therapist, for helping me through everything,” Enriquez added. “Their support has been invaluable to me.”