By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve Watterworth
Photos by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tom Gagnier
NORFOLK – A 2012 Tinley Park High School graduate and Tinley Park, Illinois native is serving in the U.S. Navy with Coastal Riverine Squadron (CRS) 2.
A Navy master-at-arms is responsible for law enforcement and force protection measures.
“I think the best part of my job is teaching people how to deploy safety and know what they are doing,” said Figuigui.
Figuigui credits his success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in his hometown of Tinley Park.
“My hometown taught me to never give up when you believe in something,” said Figuigui. "It's a moral base and a respect factor of where I came from."
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 that serving with this command provides the opportunity to perform work outside of my usual job,” said Figuigui. “It has allowed me to grow as a result.”
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, Figuigui is most proud of earning the Navy and Marine Corps achievement medal for training sailors for an embarked security team.
“I’ve learned when you put your mind to it you can get anything done,” said Figuigui.
While serving in the Navy may present many challenges, Figuigui has found reward in service.
“The Navy has provided me with a sense of camaraderie,” said Figuigui. “It’s one of the best things about being in the Navy.”