SAN DIEGO - Petty Officer 2nd Class April Baker, a native of Poway, California, serves the U.S. Navy at Naval Base Point Loma.
Baker graduated from Poway High School in 2018.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Poway
“Growing up in a big family, I was taught the importance of teamwork, patience and supporting others,” Baker said. "The Navy is one big family and in order to accomplish our mission, it is imperative to work seamlessly with one another. My patience and ability to support others has also allowed me to create more cohesion with other sailors."
Baker joined the Navy six years ago. Today, Baker serves as an operations specialist.
“I joined the Navy to honor my family's legacy,” Baker said. "My grandfather was a master chief boatswain’s mate in the Navy. He showed me what leadership and dedication look like. I saw the opportunity to accrue the same opportunities he did in the Navy and followed in his footsteps. My father and sister were not able to join so I was excited to have the opportunity to carry the legacy forward. I also wanted to inspire my future family to pursue the opportunities the Navy had as well. I am blessed to carry my family's legacy forward."
Naval Base Point Loma provides support to 70 U.S. Pacific Fleet commands headquartered on the base, including five nuclear-powered fast attack submarines. The base is also home to Cabrillo National Park and the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, which averages more than 1.2 million visitors annually.
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.
Baker has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is becoming a Shellback during deployment,” Baker said. "My grandfather was also a Shellback during his time in the Navy, and to have the opportunity to continue his legacy, was a once in a lifetime opportunity. I also received Junior Military Member of the Quarter which was a testament to all my efforts at the command.'
Baker 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 being part of something bigger than myself,” Baker said. "It also means my family has a legacy of dedication, sacrifice and honor. Serving in the Navy is ultimately about pushing myself to grow, and facing challenges head on with my fellow sailors while experiencing opportunities I never would have otherwise had.”
Baker is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my family and friends,” Baker added. "They have supported me every step of the way. Their unyielding encouragement, love and support has allowed me to excel at the rate I have.”