Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
SAN DIEGO – Petty Officer 3rd Class Michael Jones, a native of Granville, New York, joined the Navy because her grandfather encouraged her to consider the military.
"I saw how happy and successful he was after completing his Navy career, and I wanted to experience something similar in my life," said Jones.
Jones currently 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.
Jones is an aviation electronics technician who is responsible for providing maintenance on helicopter electronics.
“I find it easy to understand what is required for my job,” said Jones.
Jones is a 2017 Granville Junior Senior High School graduate.
According to Jones, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Granville.
“I learned to not take anything for granted,” said Jones. "Where there is a will, there is a way."
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. Jones is most proud of qualifying as a collateral duty inspector.
“This means that I can be my own boss and train those below me,” said Jones.
For Jones, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Jones hopes to continue.
“My aunt was in the Army; my uncle and grandfather were both in the Navy,” said Jones. “Carrying on a military tradition is important to me because I get to have a positive impact on my future children and grandchildren.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Jones, 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 am willing to protect those who live in the states,” said Jones. "There are many different backgrounds and cultures in the Navy that come together to complete the same mission, which is protecting the USA."
Jones currently 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.
Jones is an aviation electronics technician who is responsible for providing maintenance on helicopter electronics.
“I find it easy to understand what is required for my job,” said Jones.
Jones is a 2017 Granville Junior Senior High School graduate.
According to Jones, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Granville.
“I learned to not take anything for granted,” said Jones. "Where there is a will, there is a way."
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. Jones is most proud of qualifying as a collateral duty inspector.
“This means that I can be my own boss and train those below me,” said Jones.
For Jones, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Jones hopes to continue.
“My aunt was in the Army; my uncle and grandfather were both in the Navy,” said Jones. “Carrying on a military tradition is important to me because I get to have a positive impact on my future children and grandchildren.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Jones, 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 am willing to protect those who live in the states,” said Jones. "There are many different backgrounds and cultures in the Navy that come together to complete the same mission, which is protecting the USA."