MILLINGTON, Tenn. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Ferdinand Laron, a native of Manteca, California, is serving in the U.S. Navy assigned to Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
Laron is a 2016 graduate of Manteca High School who has earned an Associate of Applied Science in Health Sciences from American Military University and certifications as a personal trainer and nutrition coach from the National Academy of Sports Medicine.
Laron joined the Navy seven years ago.
"I wanted to see if the medical field was right for me, be a part of something greater, travel the world and to serve my country," Laron said.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Manteca.
"My parents instilled in me from kindergarten till graduating high school, being on time (perfect attendance) and doing the best I can in all aspects," Laron said.
Today, Laron serves as a hospital corpsman assisting healthcare professionals in providing medical care to Navy personnel and their families.
According to Navy officials, NMRTC’s mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high-quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research. NMRTC serves as the single point of contact in support of installation and operational commanders, providing medical information, support and over medical cognizance of the active duty and reserve force.
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.
Laron has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
"My proudest accomplishments are seeing my sailors thrive in their careers, serving alongside my Marines while having earned my trust and care being called "Doc," winning Junior Sailor of the Year for fiscal year 2019 for all of Navy Medicine West's 13 commands and earning my Enlisted Fleet Marine Force Warfare Specialist (Ground Combat Element) insignia," Laron said.
Laron can take pride in serving America through military service.
"Serving in the Navy means a lot to me," Laron said. "I am grateful to train daily with my sailors and Marines while having that camaraderie and no matter how "bad" a situation might be, we are all in it together."
Laron is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
"I'd like to thank and send a shoutout to my mom for her endless love and support," Laron added. "My dad passed away last year from cancer and I want to thank and honor him for all he has done for my family and his 30 years of service to the Army Exchange in Lathrop, California."