Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
SAN DIEGO – Airman Colin Ryan joined the Navy to find a different experience. Now, four years later, Ryan 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.
Ryan is an aviation ordnanceman responsible for maintaining bombs, missiles and small arms.
“I enjoy the camaraderie we have,” said Ryan.
Ryan is a native of Fort Benning, Georgia, where his father was stationed.
According to Ryan, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Fort Benning.
“Growing up in the military, I learned to expect the unexpected,” said Ryan. "I also learned that good leaders are hard to come by."
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. Ryan is most proud of starting a family.
“I got married in 2016, and we have one boy who is two years old, and we have another son on the way,” said Ryan.
For Ryan, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Ryan hopes to continue.
“My father is in the Army, and my father-in-law served in the Marines,” said Ryan. “I have pride knowing that I can continue in my own way to serve.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Ryan, 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 I can go my own way while taking pride in my military service,” said Ryan.
“I enjoy the camaraderie we have,” said Ryan.
Ryan is a native of Fort Benning, Georgia, where his father was stationed.
According to Ryan, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Fort Benning.
“Growing up in the military, I learned to expect the unexpected,” said Ryan. "I also learned that good leaders are hard to come by."
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. Ryan is most proud of starting a family.
“I got married in 2016, and we have one boy who is two years old, and we have another son on the way,” said Ryan.
For Ryan, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Ryan hopes to continue.
“My father is in the Army, and my father-in-law served in the Marines,” said Ryan. “I have pride knowing that I can continue in my own way to serve.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Ryan, 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 I can go my own way while taking pride in my military service,” said Ryan.