By Mr. Dusty Good
Photos by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tom Gagnier
NORFOLK – A 2015 School for International Studies graduate and Brooklyn, New York, native is serving in the U.S. Navy at Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic (COMNAVSURFLANT), which is located on the largest Navy base in the world, Naval Station Norfolk.
A Navy information systems technician is normally responsible for satellite systems, networks and communication aboard ships.
“I picked the right job because I enjoy what I do,” said Jean-Pierre. "To me, the job makes sense because it's always technical and there is always a way to fix things."
Jean-Pierre credits her success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in her hometown of Brooklyn.
“Growing up in Brooklyn taught me to treat people how you want to be treated,” said Jean-Pierre. "I accept how people are because there are so many cultures in New York, which is similar to the Navy."
SURFLANT was established in 1975 to provide a central, East Coast command for the cruisers, destroyers, amphibious ships and other surface forces of the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet.
COMNAVSURFLANT is one of the six U.S. naval type commands. It was established in 1975 as a consolidation of the cruiser-destroyer, amphibious, and service forces of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. In addition to SURFLANT's nearly 70 ships, there are special mission and fleet support units that make up the more than 100 commands of the force. SURFLANT personnel are stationed stateside and forward deployed in Bahrain; Rota, Spain; and the Aegis Ashore Missile Defense System in Romania and Poland. Additionally, surface forces provide a critical element to drug interdiction operations in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific.
"To go in harm's way" in defense of the principles of freedom and democracy has been the rally call of surface force sailors for more than 200 years.
The command provides combat-ready surface forces for U.S. Fleet Forces Command and combatant commanders that are capable of conducting prompt, sustained naval, joint, and combined operations in support of United States national interests.
“My top priority is readiness. I’m extremely proud of the diverse group of sailors and civilians who serve at our command, they accept every challenge and serve with honor,” said Rear Adm. Jesse A. Wilson Jr., commander, Surfaces Forces Atlantic. “Together we are a team of warfighters who properly man, tactically train and effectively equip a force that is ready for the fight today and tomorrow.”
Though there are many ways for a sailor to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, Jean-Pierre is most proud of being able to pursue a college degree.
“I wouldn't have been able to try to get my degree without the Navy,” said Jean-Pierre. "The Navy has given me the financial backing to be able to go to school without going into debt."
While serving in the Navy may present many challenges, Jean-Pierre has found reward in service.
“The Navy makes you have lifetime friends,” Jean-Pierre said. "I still keep in touch with people that I've served with because we are bonded by experience."