Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
SAN DIEGO – As a member of the newest Maritime Strike Squadron, Petty Officer 2nd Class Jonny Anderson is continuing a tradition while also creating a new legacy. Anderson is serving with Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 78 which supports the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson.
Anderson serves as a naval aircrewman responsible for operating sensors to track submarines. He is also a search and rescue swimmer and qualified as a door gunner.
“I love flying and doing all the dynamic missions we do in the helicopter that distinguish us from other Naval aviation communities,” said Anderson. "I really like being part of the aircrew."
Anderson is a Northwest High School 2014 graduate and native of Keller, Texas.
According to Anderson, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Keller.
“Growing up in Texas, I learned the importance of being kind to others,” said Anderson. "Respecting others is a way of life in the military. We must always treat others the way we want to be treated."
According to Navy officials, maintaining maritime superiority is a vital part of a Navy that is present today and prepared for tomorrow. The impact affects Americans and their interests around the world, as more than 70 percent of the Earth is covered by water and 90 percent of all trade travels by sea.
Helicopters are equipped with the ability to conduct replenishments at sea, search and rescue missions and support operations. Sailors assigned to HSM-78 participate in these operations, along with anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface weapons systems missions.
The helicopter squadron’s mascot is a blue hawk, which is symbolic of the dominance, versatility and lethality Seahawk helicopters have in combat.
The foundation of the Navy the nation needs includes a focus on warfighting, warfighters and the future of the fighting force.
“I am confident that we will maximize the Navy we have today while delivering the Navy that our nation will rely upon tomorrow,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “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.”
HSM-78 sailors play a critical role in supporting the Navy’s aircraft carriers. Aircraft carriers and carrier strike groups remain the centerpiece of our nation’s security strategy, supporting and protecting America’s national interests around the world. Carrier strike groups operate across the entire spectrum of military operations, according to Navy officials.
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers. Anderson is most proud of earning a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal in January.
“I saved a passenger's life on a commercial airliner while we were flying from Los Angeles to Fort Worth,” said Anderson. "The person passed out, so I administered CPR while inflight.”
For Anderson, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Anderson hopes to continue.
“My grandfathers on both my mom and dad's sides served in the military,” said Anderson. “I felt like serving my country was the best way to honor my family's service.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Anderson, 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.
“Just like anything you do in life, if you work hard the rewards will come,” said Anderson. "I appreciate the connections I have with those I serve with in the Navy."
“I love flying and doing all the dynamic missions we do in the helicopter that distinguish us from other Naval aviation communities,” said Anderson. "I really like being part of the aircrew."
Anderson is a Northwest High School 2014 graduate and native of Keller, Texas.
According to Anderson, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Keller.
“Growing up in Texas, I learned the importance of being kind to others,” said Anderson. "Respecting others is a way of life in the military. We must always treat others the way we want to be treated."
According to Navy officials, maintaining maritime superiority is a vital part of a Navy that is present today and prepared for tomorrow. The impact affects Americans and their interests around the world, as more than 70 percent of the Earth is covered by water and 90 percent of all trade travels by sea.
Helicopters are equipped with the ability to conduct replenishments at sea, search and rescue missions and support operations. Sailors assigned to HSM-78 participate in these operations, along with anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface weapons systems missions.
The helicopter squadron’s mascot is a blue hawk, which is symbolic of the dominance, versatility and lethality Seahawk helicopters have in combat.
The foundation of the Navy the nation needs includes a focus on warfighting, warfighters and the future of the fighting force.
“I am confident that we will maximize the Navy we have today while delivering the Navy that our nation will rely upon tomorrow,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “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.”
HSM-78 sailors play a critical role in supporting the Navy’s aircraft carriers. Aircraft carriers and carrier strike groups remain the centerpiece of our nation’s security strategy, supporting and protecting America’s national interests around the world. Carrier strike groups operate across the entire spectrum of military operations, according to Navy officials.
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers. Anderson is most proud of earning a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal in January.
“I saved a passenger's life on a commercial airliner while we were flying from Los Angeles to Fort Worth,” said Anderson. "The person passed out, so I administered CPR while inflight.”
For Anderson, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Anderson hopes to continue.
“My grandfathers on both my mom and dad's sides served in the military,” said Anderson. “I felt like serving my country was the best way to honor my family's service.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Anderson, 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.
“Just like anything you do in life, if you work hard the rewards will come,” said Anderson. "I appreciate the connections I have with those I serve with in the Navy."