SAN DIEGO - Petty Officer 1st Class Ivan Velazquez, a native of Rancho Cucamonga, California, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Naval Base Point Loma.
Velazquez graduated from Alta Loma High School in 2010.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Rancho Cucamonga
“Growing up as the son of immigrants taught me the importance of having a strong work ethic,” Velazquez said. "At the age of 10, I was already working several jobs. Life has always been a hustle and having that background helps me manage the day to day stress that comes with being in the Navy. My life outside made transitioning to the Navy seamless."
Velazquez joined the Navy 11 years ago. Today, Velazquez serves as a mineman.
“I joined the Navy to change my situation and to make something for myself,” Velazquez said. "I initially was going to enlist in the Navy after high school with a friend, but I was unable to do so. However, when the opportunity presented itself again, I went on a whim to the branch where my friends went. I originally came in undesignated on an aircraft carrier. As I pursued different opportunities, mineman provided a dynamic job environment doing something I couldn't do outside the Navy."
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.
Velazquez has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I am most proud of earning my Master Training Specialist qualification because it is the most rewarding qualification I can receive at my current command,” Velazquez said. “I am proud of that because it was a testament to my hard work over the past couple of years. It has now established me in a position where I will have more opportunities both in the Navy and in the future when I get out."
Velazquez 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 able to provide a life for my family that I have always dreamed of,” Velazquez said. "It has opened a lot of doors for my family. There have been a lot of trials and tribulations along the way, but it it worth it because I get to provide a better life for my wife and kid.”
Velazquez is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“First and foremost, I would like to thank my wife,” Velazquez added. "The unconditional love and support from my wife and son makes every day that much better. My parents and in-laws have also been an amazing support system every step of the way. I wouldn't be where I am today without them."