Thursday, February 6, 2020

Guyton Native Serves with Helicopter Squadron in San Diego

By Megan Brown, Navy Office of Community Outreach
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller  

SAN DIEGO – Airman Ennis Reid, a native of Guyton, Georgia, joined the Navy to travel the world and expirence new things. Now, nearly two years later, Reid 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. 

Reid is an aviation ordnanceman who is responsible for building bombs and other ammuniation to put on the aircraft.

“I like working with different people and the stuff we do is cool,” said Reid.

Reid is a 2018 Effingham High School graduate.

According to Reid, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Guyton.

“Guyton taught me to open up to new things and stay focused no matter what,” said Reid.

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. Reid is most proud of joining the Navy and receiving his qualifications.

“I had to study a lot and take multiple tests,” said Reid.

For Reid, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Reid hopes to continue.

“My dad served in the Army for five years,” said Reid “I am honored to be able to continue the tradtion. My dad knew a lot about the military and me serving makes him proud.”

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Reid, 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 did something bigger than myself,” said Reid.