By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve Watterworth
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tom Gagnier
NORFOLK – A 2012 James Earl Rudder High School graduate and Bryan, Texas native is serving in the U.S. Navy with Coastal Riverine Squadron (CRS) 2.
A Navy information systems technician operates and maintains the Navy's global satellite telecommunications systems, mainframe computers, local and wide area networks, and micro-computer systems used in the fleet.
“I love my job,” said Olivo. “I think the best part is the people I work with."
Olivo credits her success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in her hometown of Bryan.
“My hometown taught me to accomplish tasks and sign your name to the finished product,” said Olivo.” “Take pride in what you do. Own it. It’s your reputation.”
The men and women of the U.S. Navy’s Coastal Riverine Force provide port and harbor security, high value asset protection and maritime security operations in coastal and inland waterways.
“I like the idea that serving with this command involves travel,” said Olivo. “I wouldn't have been able to travel the world if I didn’t have this opportunity.”
For two years in a row CRS-2 has won the Navy’s coveted "Battle E" Award, an award that not only recognizes excellence in sustained superior performance in an operational environment, but for being the best squadron in the Coastal Riverine Force. Eligibility for this award demands day-to-day demonstrated excellence in addition to superior achievement during certifications and qualifications conducted throughout the competitive period.
In addition to this achievement, they also won the 2017 Chief of Naval Operations
Off Duty Safety Award, a first for any unit under the charge of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command.
"This squadron's success is due to the dedication and caliber of its sailors at all levels,” said Cmdr. Joe Droll, commanding officer of CRS-2. “The demands placed on them are high, and they often make sacrifices to meet the mission, whether its training boat crews, security teams, maintainers or operation center watch standers. Through all the challenges they find a way to get the job done.”
Though there are many ways for a sailor to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, Olivo is most proud of earning an expeditionary warfare pin.
“Getting to learn the history of the coastal riverine command was special, and will be important to me for life,” said Olivo.
While serving in the Navy may present many challenges, Olivo has found reward in her service.
“You’d better have some tough skin,” said Olivo. “You have to do your best because others are counting on you.”