By Dustin Good, Navy Office of Community Outreach
OAK HARBOR, Wash. – Seaman Apprentice Rachael Mann, a native of Peekskill, New York, joined the Navy in order to get a vocation and have a stable job.
Now, almost a year after joining the Navy, Mann serves with Commander Electronic Attack Wing Pacific (CVWP), working with the Navy’s premier electronic attack aircraft at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington.
“I like that this command is very friendly one,” said Mann. "Everyone here is motivated."
Mann is a yeoman with CVWP, a command overseeing the Navy’s electronic attack squadrons capable of altering the outcome of any engagement with the EA-18G “Growler.”
“I’m responsible for administrative duties,” said Mann.
Mann credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in Peekskill.
“Growing up in my hometown I learned that you have to put yourself out there and be known,” said Mann. "It's helped me in the Navy by making me more approachable."
CVWP's primary mission is to man, train, and equip deployable and combat-ready Airborne Electronic Attack forces. Those squadrons deploy with aircraft carriers to project electronic attack dominance anywhere in the world at any time. This includes suppression of enemy radar systems, sensor jamming and electronic protection.
The EA-18G “Growler” is the most advanced airborne electronic attack (AEA) platform in production today, according to Navy officials. The Navy invests in advanced “Growler” capabilities to ensure it continues to protect all strike aircraft during high-threat missions for decades to come.
“When we have our awards ceremonies I was a part of setting it up and it went really well,” said Mann. "I was proud of the part I played in that."
Serving in the Navy means Mann is part of a world that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
A key element of the Navy the nation needs is tied to the fact that America is a maritime nation, 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.
“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 sailors to earn distinction in their command, community, and career, Mann is most proud of being trusted with the responsibilities the Navy has placed on her.
“People know I'm capable of doing my job and they trust me,” said Mann.
As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied upon assets, Mann and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes contributing to the Navy the nation needs.
“Serving in the Navy provides me with opportunities that will go beyond simply serving,” said Mann.