Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
SAN DIEGO – Petty Officer 2nd Class Marqueese Walker, a native of Danville, Kentucky, joined the Navy for the educational opportunities and to travel the world. Now, five years later, Walker serves with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 3, working with one of the Navy’s most advanced helicopters at Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego.
Walker is an aviation ordnanceman who is responsible for receiving, issuing and storing bombs or anything else that can explode.
“It is a fun job to do,” said Walker. “I like hands on things and it is very hands on job.”
Walker is a 2012 Danville High School graduate.
According to Walker, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Danville.
“I am from a small town, so everyone knew you or knew of you which helps me on deployment,” said Walker.
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.
Pilots and aircrew are trained in the squadron to fly MH-60S “Seahawk” helicopters to ensure they are prepared for peacetime and warfighting missions.
Helicopters are equipped with the ability to conduct replenishments at sea, search and rescue missions and support other operations as needed.
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. Walker is most proud of making second class petty officer.
“I did my job and I did it well while always studying,” said Walker. “The advancement percentage is not high for aviation ordnanceman. I am proud of coming in and making it in a short amount of time.”
For Walker, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Walker hopes to continue.
“My aunt is in the Army, and when I first came in I had three cousins in the Navy,” said Walker. “I will support my kids if they ever want to serve.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Walker, 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 opportunity to travel, receive a college education and get life experience,” said Walker.
“It is a fun job to do,” said Walker. “I like hands on things and it is very hands on job.”
Walker is a 2012 Danville High School graduate.
According to Walker, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Danville.
“I am from a small town, so everyone knew you or knew of you which helps me on deployment,” said Walker.
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.
Pilots and aircrew are trained in the squadron to fly MH-60S “Seahawk” helicopters to ensure they are prepared for peacetime and warfighting missions.
Helicopters are equipped with the ability to conduct replenishments at sea, search and rescue missions and support other operations as needed.
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. Walker is most proud of making second class petty officer.
“I did my job and I did it well while always studying,” said Walker. “The advancement percentage is not high for aviation ordnanceman. I am proud of coming in and making it in a short amount of time.”
For Walker, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Walker hopes to continue.
“My aunt is in the Army, and when I first came in I had three cousins in the Navy,” said Walker. “I will support my kids if they ever want to serve.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Walker, 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 opportunity to travel, receive a college education and get life experience,” said Walker.