VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Seaman Apprentice Brianna Keenan, a native of Midland, Pennsylvania, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Group (MESG) 2, part of the Navy’s expeditionary force.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Marieliza Rosales Navy Public Affairs Support Element East |
Keenan graduated from Western Beaver High School in 2017.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Midland.
“Growing up, I learned that everyone comes from different backgrounds, and you don’t know what people have been through,” Keenan said. “What you might think is common, someone else might not think is as obvious. Having that knowledge helps me be friendly and understanding of my peers, because some people might not be able to ask for friends or for help.”
Keenan joined the Navy nearly one year ago. Today, Keenan serves as a quartermaster.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted an adventure, new experiences and the opportunity to go to college,” Keenan said. “My dad was in the Army. I wanted to do my own thing; no one else in my family had served in the Navy.”
MESG-2, headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia, delivers the Navy’s front line of defense in coastal waters and ports around the globe. Its sailors are trained to patrol harbors, escort high-value ships, and guard maritime chokepoints where danger is most likely to appear. Whether operating from fast patrol craft or shoreside security positions, they ensure freedom of movement for U.S. and allied forces in contested environments.
MESG-2’s mission is built on vigilance and quiet strength. Their presence may not always make headlines, but their work underpins the safety of every operation that begins or ends at sea. In the littorals — where a small gap in security can have outsized consequences — MESG-2 stands as a constant, capable force, committed to keeping the Navy’s lifelines secure.
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.
Keenan has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I’m most proud of making it through Expeditionary Combat School,” Keenan said. “It was the hardest one for me. I’ve never had any experience with handling guns or anything. Going through that in a hot climate and adjusting to the summer weather in Mississippi was different.”
Keenan serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“I’m just thankful to have the opportunity to serve and to have people around me who will help me understand when I need help,” Keenan said. “When I fully understand, I can help others who don’t understand. It will help me be a good leader, build confidence and teach others.”
Keenan is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my grandparents, my dad, my siblings and my partner,” Keenan said. “I wouldn’t be who I am today without their support.”