U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian T. Glunt
PEARL HARBOR – A Marietta, New York, native and 2011 Marcellus High School graduate is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided-missile cruiser, USS Port Royal.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Alexis Perez Green Halgh has served in the Navy for two years and is a U.S. Navy gas turbine systems technician (electrical) aboard guided-missile cruiser operating out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. A Navy gas turbine systems technician (electrical), Perez Green Halgh is responsible for all electronically components of the gas turbine systems onboard.
Perez Green Halgh credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in Marietta.
“I was taught to work hard but don’t forget to call your mama,” said Perez Green Halgh.
Approximately 300 men and women serve aboard the ship. According to Navy officials, their jobs are highly specialized and keep each part of the cruiser running smoothly. They do everything from maintaining gas turbine engines and operating the highly sophisticated Aegis weapons system to driving the ship and operating small boats.
Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, Perez Green Halgh is most proud of graduating top of her class and making petty officer third class.
“Only a small percent of the Navy achieves this recognition,” said Perez Green Halgh.
A Navy cruiser is a multi-mission ship that can operate independently or as part of a larger group of ships at sea Navy officials explained. The ship is equipped with a vertical launching system, tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns and a phalanx close-in weapons systems.
Being stationed in Pearl Harbor, often referred to as the gateway to the Pacific in defense circles, means Perez Green Halgh is serving in a part of the world taking on a new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances, and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“Our priorities center on people, capabilities and processes, and will be achieved by our focus on speed, value, results and partnerships,” said Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer. “Readiness, lethality and modernization are the requirements driving these priorities.
The Navy has been pivotal in helping maintain peace and stability in the Pacific region for decades. The Pacific is home to more than 50 percent of the world's population, many of the world's largest and smallest economies, several of the world's largest militaries, and many U.S. allies.
Serving in the Navy is a continuing tradition of military service for Perez Green Halgh, who has military ties with family members who have previously served. Perez Green Halgh is honored to carry on that family tradition.
“My father served in the Marine Corps, my uncle served in the Air Force and my grandfather served in the Navy and Army,” said Perez Green Halgh. “I love the sea so the Navy was an easy choice.”
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Perez Green Halgh and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes, one that will provide a critical component of the Navy the nation needs.
“Being able to serve my country, learn new things everyday and meet incredible people is something not many people can say they do or have done and that means a lot to me,” added Perez Green Halgh.