Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
SAN DIEGO – Petty Officer 2nd Class Vatriesa Thompson, a native of Decatur, Georgia, joined the Navy to do something different and change the direction of her life. Now, 10 years later, Thompson 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.
Thompson is an aviation electrician’s mate who is responsible for dealing with every electronic component in Navy aircraft.
“My favorite part of my job is when I fix a component and I actually see what it does in the aircraft,” said Thompson. “The component that I fixed allowed the pilots to complete their mission.”
Thompson is a 2002 Tucker High School graduate.
According to Thompson, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Decatur.
“Some of my biggest obstacles have turned into my greatest victories in life and in the Navy,” said Thompson.
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. Thompson is most proud of mentoring junior sailors and showing them that she does care.
“I had to navigate a lot of the obstacles and the trials I felt like I was defeated at alone,” said Thompson. “A lot of junior sailors are going through the same thing. If I can lead someone and show sailors that they are not alone it makes just one day worth it. If I can help someone with my journey, I feel like my job is done.”
For Thompson, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Thompson hopes to continue.
“A lot of my family has served,” said Thompson. “I have family rooting for me and I didn’t even know it. They wanted me to succeed and they were going to do everything in their power to see that I did something good with my life.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Thompson, 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 I am able to touch and impact the lives of sailors and help them through my story,” said Thompson.
“My favorite part of my job is when I fix a component and I actually see what it does in the aircraft,” said Thompson. “The component that I fixed allowed the pilots to complete their mission.”
Thompson is a 2002 Tucker High School graduate.
According to Thompson, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Decatur.
“Some of my biggest obstacles have turned into my greatest victories in life and in the Navy,” said Thompson.
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. Thompson is most proud of mentoring junior sailors and showing them that she does care.
“I had to navigate a lot of the obstacles and the trials I felt like I was defeated at alone,” said Thompson. “A lot of junior sailors are going through the same thing. If I can lead someone and show sailors that they are not alone it makes just one day worth it. If I can help someone with my journey, I feel like my job is done.”
For Thompson, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Thompson hopes to continue.
“A lot of my family has served,” said Thompson. “I have family rooting for me and I didn’t even know it. They wanted me to succeed and they were going to do everything in their power to see that I did something good with my life.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Thompson, 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 I am able to touch and impact the lives of sailors and help them through my story,” said Thompson.