Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
SAN DIEGO – Petty Officer 2nd Class Alexis Owen, a native of Livermore, California, joined the Navy in part because of her high school history teacher, Mr. McCombs.
"He was former military and shared with us many stories that inspired me to serve," said Owen.
Now, eight years later, Owen 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.
Owen is an aviation ordnanceman responsible for loading weapons on aircraft.
“I enjoy the family atmosphere we have and learning about all the different types of missiles and bombs,” said Owen.
Owen is a 2009 Granada High School graduate.
According to Owen, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Livermore.
“Growing up in Livermore, going to high school at Granada, I learned the importance of communicating,” said Owen. "Communication helps others respect you because you're able to talk with them."
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. Owen is most proud of automatically advancing to her current rank.
“In 2015, I was meritoriously promoted to second class petty officer,” said Owen. "I try to be an expert at my job, and now I get to train others how to do our job."
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Owen, 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.
“I feel like everyone should serve at some point in their life because the military offers a sense of purpose and accomplishment,” said Owen. "I love what I do and just reenlisted for another five years."
Now, eight years later, Owen 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.
Owen is an aviation ordnanceman responsible for loading weapons on aircraft.
“I enjoy the family atmosphere we have and learning about all the different types of missiles and bombs,” said Owen.
Owen is a 2009 Granada High School graduate.
According to Owen, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Livermore.
“Growing up in Livermore, going to high school at Granada, I learned the importance of communicating,” said Owen. "Communication helps others respect you because you're able to talk with them."
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. Owen is most proud of automatically advancing to her current rank.
“In 2015, I was meritoriously promoted to second class petty officer,” said Owen. "I try to be an expert at my job, and now I get to train others how to do our job."
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Owen, 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.
“I feel like everyone should serve at some point in their life because the military offers a sense of purpose and accomplishment,” said Owen. "I love what I do and just reenlisted for another five years."