By Mr. Dusty Good
Photos by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tom Gagnier
NORFOLK – A 2011 Page High School graduate and Page, Arizona, 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 sonar technician is normally responsible for maintenance and operations of sonar systems.
“I like the science behind my job,” said Green. "I get to mesh tactics with oceanography and technical knowledge that not a lot of people know about. I think that's pretty cool."
Green credits her success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in her hometown of Page.
“No matter what your background is or where you are from we are all people,” said Green. "We should all care for each other."
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, Green is most proud of serving on the guard ship during the Yemen chemical attacks.
“We helped provide a point for all the air and sea humanitarian efforts,” said Green. "It's nice to know you are part of the bigger picture in working to make better such a tragedy."
While serving in the Navy may present many challenges, Green has found reward in service.
“The Navy has taught me that even if you are not directly praised for an accomplishment you are a part of something bigger than yourself helping mankind,” Green said. "And the Navy helps you keep that always in your mind."