STENNIS, Ms. – Most Americans rely on weather forecasts to plan their daily routine. The U.S. Navy is no different. With numerous ships, submarines and airplanes deployed around the world, sailors and civilians serving with the Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command at Stennis Space Center, Mississippi, advise Navy leaders about the impact of ocean and atmospheric conditions on future operations.
“I immigrated from the Czech Republic, but claim Binghamton as my adopted American hometown because there's a strong and active community of people of Czech descent, and they provide great support,” said Prikasky. “I also met my wife of 27 years in Binghamton, so it's a really special place."
As a Navy executive officer, Prikasky is responsible for managing the day-to-day activities, such as administration, training and logistics to carry out the commanding officer's vision for the command.
A key element of the Navy the nation needs is tied to the fact that America is a maritime nation, according to Navy officials, and that the nation’s prosperity is tied to the ability to operate freely on the world’s oceans. More than 70 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered by water; 80 percent of the world’s population lives close to a coast; and 90 percent of all global trade by volume travels by sea.
“Naval Oceanography defines and applies the physical environment for the entire Navy fleet from the bottom of the ocean to the stars,” said Rear Adm. John Okon, Commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command. “There isn't a plane that flies, a ship or a submarine that gets underway without the sailors and civilians of Naval Oceanography.”
Prikasky is playing an important part 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.”
Though there are many ways for members of the military to earn distinction in their command, community and career, Prikasky is most proud of seeing the sailors he's trained and mentored succeed.
“It makes me proud to see sailors achieve their goals, particularly the enlisted sailors who put on chief's anchors and for officers to take command,” said Prikasky. “I am most proud of this since these are the leaders who will ensure that the U.S. Navy will remain the best Navy in the world."
Serving in the Navy is a continuing tradition of military service for Prikasky, who has military ties with family members who have previously served. Prikasky is honored to carry on that family tradition.
“I have two sons who are both commissioned officers in the United States Navy,” said Prikasky. “One is training to be a supply officer, and the other is training to be a pilot. I certainly hope that my example contributed to their decision to serve."
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Prikasky and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.
"Serving in the Navy means providing peace and security so my fellow citizens can go about their daily activities without worry and sleep peacefully at night,” added Prikasky.