NORFOLK, Va. - Petty Officer 3rd Class Kevin Rocha Perez, a native of Woodbridge, Virginia, 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 |
Rocha Perez graduated from Woodbridge High School in 2020.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Woodbridge.
“My hometown taught me the importance of hard work and that everything you do has your name on it,” Rocha Perez said. “Hard work is everything, and those lessons have helped shape my Navy career.”
Rocha Perez joined the Navy four years ago. Today, Rocha Perez serves as an aviation boatswain's mate (handling).
“I joined the Navy for the career path it could give me and the job security,” Rocha Perez said. “Growing up, I knew I wanted to do something that would provide stability, and the Navy offered that. Plus, the opportunity to travel and continue my education was a huge draw for me.”
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.
Rocha Perez has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment so far is the bonds I’ve made,” Rocha Perez said. “The bonds I’ve made with my shipmates have definitely been the most rewarding part of my journey.”
Rocha Perez 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 it means my family’s name is carried on through me,” Rocha Perez said. “It makes me proud of how far I’ve come, and knowing my family is proud of me makes it even more meaningful.”
Rocha Perez is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“My older brother has been a big mentor all my life,” Rocha Perez added. “I’m grateful for his guidance and support through everything.”