By Alvin Plexico, Navy Office of Community Outreach
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Lt. Matthew Avecilla, a native of Orlando, Florida, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 74.
 |
| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrew Hanchar |
Avecilla graduated from West Port High School in 2015. He graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2019 with a degree in integrated business.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Orlando.
“Growing up, I learned the importance of staying committed to what you're doing and to finish what you start with the highest level of pride,” Avecilla said.
Avecilla joined the Navy five years ago. Today, Avecilla serves as a pilot.
“I wanted to serve my country, and I wanted to fly,” Avecilla said. "I was looking for an engaging job and felt the Navy was a great way to serve."
Members of HSM-74 fly and maintain the MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, the Navy’s most advanced rotary wing maritime strike platform. The Navy MH-60R is able to perform many different missions. Some of the most common operations include strikes on maritime targets, submarine hunting and attack, electronic warfare, search and rescue, medical evacuations and supply support.
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.
Avecilla has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I'm most proud of earning my wings of gold as a naval aviator,” Avecilla said. "It took a lot of hard work over a number of years, but it was well worth it in the end. I'm also proud of seeing the sailors' personal growth and celebrating their accomplishments."
Avecilla 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 a lot to me,” Avecilla said. "It's more than just a career. It's a way to serve my country alongside some of the best people I've ever met in my life."
Avecilla is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my wife, Jessica, for all her support and sacrifice through multiple moves, deployments and long hours,” Avecilla said. "I also want to thank my mom, Jo, and my sister, Grace, for all their support."