NORFOLK, Va. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Dominik Forster, a native of Kenosha, Wisconsin, 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 |
Forster graduated from Westland High School in 2021.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Kenosha.
“My hometown taught me the importance of community and how hard work is rewarded when you put in the effort,” Forster said. “It also taught me discipline and how to be more open, making it easier to meet new people.”
Forster joined the Navy four years ago. Today, Forster serves as a master-at-arms.
“I joined the Navy to travel and see new places,” Forster said. “I’ve always enjoyed getting to explore new locations. My mom was also in the Army.”
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.
Forster has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My greatest accomplishment so far has been making the rank of second class petty officer in under four years,” Forster said. “That was a big milestone in my career.”
Forster 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 gives me a sense of pride because my family served before me and now I get to carry that legacy on with my service,” Forster said. “It also allows me to travel while working, meeting new people and gaining new experiences—all while staying on my toes and competing with other sailors.”
Forster is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank Leading Petty Officer Chief Master-at-Arms Brian Hunt, my mom and my brother,” Forster added. “Their support and encouragement have meant a lot to me throughout my journey.”