Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
LEMOORE, Calif. – A 2012 Allen High School graduate and Allen, Texas, native is serving in the U.S. Navy with Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit Lemoore where Commander Strike Fighter Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet is located.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Alexander William Camacho works as an aviation ordnanceman and operates out of Naval Air Station Lemoore, California.A Navy aviation ordnanceman is responsible for handling ordnance and making sure it is loaded properly onto the aircraft.
“Growing up, I was taught to never back down and to fight for what you believe in,” said Camacho. “You have to use those skills to get a job done in the Navy. It isn't an easy job. You have to keep your nose to the grindstone and never back down.”
The strike fighter wing, headquartered at NAS Lemoore, ensures that each squadron is fully combat-ready to conduct carrier-based, all-weather, attack, fighter and support missions for the Pacific Fleet.
Sailors stationed in Lemoore are responsible for the operation of the airfield, providing services and support to the Naval Air Station, tenant and transiting aircraft. They also provide firefighting functions, both structural and rescue and conduct shipboard firefighting training.
Camacho has military ties with family members who have previously served and is honored to carry on the family tradition.
“My uncle was in the Navy,” said Camacho. “I joined the Navy because I didn't want to go to college and not know what to do with my life and waste money. I joined the military to give me structure and skills I could use.”
With the CSFWP consisting of more than 20 squadrons, highly specialized jobs range from training new aviators to maintaining airframes and engines, to handling and flying aircraft.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied-upon assets, Camacho and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.
“Serving in the Navy means being a part of a team,” Camacho added. “No matter what you are not alone. It really is a family. It means we are living with honor.”