Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
SAN DIEGO – As a member of the oldest Maritime Strike Squadron, Petty Officer 3rd Class Tahani Lewis is part of a Naval legacy. Lewis is an aviation machinist’s mate responsible for working on the helicopter engines as part of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71, which supports the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis.
“I like that every day is different learning new things,” said Lewis "This is a hands-on job, so I'm not stuck behind a desk."
Lewis is a native of Church Rock, New Mexico and graduated from Piedra Vista High School in Farmington, New Mexico in 2011.
According to Lewis, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Church Rock.
“No matter where I go, don't worry,” said Lewis. "If it's worth having it's worth working hard to get it."
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
Sailors assigned to HSM-71 are a part of history, flying with “Romeo” helicopters, the newest and most advanced in the fleet. Helicopters are equipped with the ability to conduct replenishments at sea, search and rescue missions and support operations.
The members of HSM-71 achieve excellence in military performance and create an example for other squadrons to follow through operational readiness, innovation and weapon development.
HSM-71 sailors play a critical role in supporting the Navy’s aircraft carriers. Aircraft carriers and carrier strike groups remain the centerpiece of our nation’s security strategy, supporting and protecting America’s national interests around the world. Carrier strike groups operate across the entire spectrum of military operations, according to Navy officials.
According to Admiral Mike Gilday, the Chief of Naval Operations, the focus of today’s Navy is squarely on warfighting, warfighters and the capabilities needed for the Navy of the future.
“I am confident we will maximize the Navy we have today while delivering the Navy that our nation will rely upon tomorrow,” said Gilday. “And we will do so with urgency. Our fleet will be a potent, formidable force that competes around the world every day, deterring those who would challenge us while reassuring our allies and partners.”
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers. Lewis is most proud of earning a designation as plane captain.
“I had to pass qualifications and learn the proper hand signals and safety procedures,” said Lewis. "This is very important because we're responsible for landing the helicopters and sending them off."
For Lewis, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Lewis hopes to continue.
“I have uncles and cousins who served in the military,” said Lewis. “Carrying on a military tradition means a lot to me, because I'm Native American. So, carrying on this line of service means we'll be remembered. Military service is upheld with a great deal of respect in my family."
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Lewis, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“Serving in the Navy means that no matter how small or tedious the job may seem on a daily basis, it does make a difference,” said Lewis.
Lewis is a native of Church Rock, New Mexico and graduated from Piedra Vista High School in Farmington, New Mexico in 2011.
According to Lewis, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Church Rock.
“No matter where I go, don't worry,” said Lewis. "If it's worth having it's worth working hard to get it."
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
Sailors assigned to HSM-71 are a part of history, flying with “Romeo” helicopters, the newest and most advanced in the fleet. Helicopters are equipped with the ability to conduct replenishments at sea, search and rescue missions and support operations.
The members of HSM-71 achieve excellence in military performance and create an example for other squadrons to follow through operational readiness, innovation and weapon development.
HSM-71 sailors play a critical role in supporting the Navy’s aircraft carriers. Aircraft carriers and carrier strike groups remain the centerpiece of our nation’s security strategy, supporting and protecting America’s national interests around the world. Carrier strike groups operate across the entire spectrum of military operations, according to Navy officials.
According to Admiral Mike Gilday, the Chief of Naval Operations, the focus of today’s Navy is squarely on warfighting, warfighters and the capabilities needed for the Navy of the future.
“I am confident we will maximize the Navy we have today while delivering the Navy that our nation will rely upon tomorrow,” said Gilday. “And we will do so with urgency. Our fleet will be a potent, formidable force that competes around the world every day, deterring those who would challenge us while reassuring our allies and partners.”
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers. Lewis is most proud of earning a designation as plane captain.
“I had to pass qualifications and learn the proper hand signals and safety procedures,” said Lewis. "This is very important because we're responsible for landing the helicopters and sending them off."
For Lewis, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Lewis hopes to continue.
“I have uncles and cousins who served in the military,” said Lewis. “Carrying on a military tradition means a lot to me, because I'm Native American. So, carrying on this line of service means we'll be remembered. Military service is upheld with a great deal of respect in my family."
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Lewis, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“Serving in the Navy means that no matter how small or tedious the job may seem on a daily basis, it does make a difference,” said Lewis.