By Mr. Dusty Good
Photos by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tom Gagnier
NORFOLK – A 2009 Kempsville High School graduate and Virginia Beach, Virginia, 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 surface warfare officer is normally responsible for the safety and operation of surface ships.
“I like that my job gives me a chance to drive the ship,” said Allen. "It's just fun to be actually able to maneuver the ship and make it do what I want it to do."
Allen credits his success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in his hometown of Virginia Beach.
“I learned if it's worth doing, it's worth doing it right while growing up,” said Allen.
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, Allen is most proud of the ability to serve.
“The things I've been able to see and do since I've been in [the Navy], I wouldn't have had the opportunity to do without serving,” said Allen.
While serving in the Navy may present many challenges, Allen has found reward in service.
“The Navy has taught me the difference between good and bad leadership,” Allen said. "Being a good leader means listening to what those who are below you have to say and taking criticism to make myself better."