Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
SAN DIEGO – As a member of the oldest Maritime Strike Squadron, Petty Officer 1st Class Michael Martinez is part of a Naval legacy. Martinez is an aviation electronics technician responsible for maintaining and repairing aviation equipment, such as radar, communication and navigation systems and is a part of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71, which supports the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis.
“Troubleshooting is always different,” said Martinez. "Every day, there are different issues we're dealing with."
Martinez is a 2005 Marysville Pilchuck High School graduate and native of Marysville, Washington.
According to Martinez, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Marysville.
“Growing up in Marysville, I gained a great deal of exposure to a lot of different people,” said Martinez. "This is very similar to what we have in the Navy, with people from a lot of different places and backgrounds."
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.
Sailors assigned to HSM-71 are a part of history, flying with “Romeo” helicopters, the newest and most advanced in the fleet. Helicopters are equipped with the ability to conduct replenishments at sea, search and rescue missions and support operations.
The members of HSM-71 achieve excellence in military performance and create an example for other squadrons to follow through operational readiness, innovation and weapon development.
HSM-71 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.
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. Martinez is most proud of earning his current rank.
“I was meritoriously advanced to first class petty officer in 2018,” said Martinez. "That was definitely a great day!"
For Martinez, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Martinez hopes to continue.
“My dad and grandfather both served,” said Martinez. "My dad was Navy and my grandfather was Air Force. We all did very different things, but we also have a common bond now. Growing up listening to my dad share his stories, I never thought I'd be in the military. Now, when I go home my dad is inquisitive about what I do, and I'm interested in his service as well.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Martinez, 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 love serving in the Navy,” said Martinez. "It gives me a sense of pride. It's a great opportunity for new experiences. It's a test to your ability to adapt to new situations. It requires you to grow to meet standards."
Martinez is a 2005 Marysville Pilchuck High School graduate and native of Marysville, Washington.
According to Martinez, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Marysville.
“Growing up in Marysville, I gained a great deal of exposure to a lot of different people,” said Martinez. "This is very similar to what we have in the Navy, with people from a lot of different places and backgrounds."
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.
Sailors assigned to HSM-71 are a part of history, flying with “Romeo” helicopters, the newest and most advanced in the fleet. Helicopters are equipped with the ability to conduct replenishments at sea, search and rescue missions and support operations.
The members of HSM-71 achieve excellence in military performance and create an example for other squadrons to follow through operational readiness, innovation and weapon development.
HSM-71 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.
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. Martinez is most proud of earning his current rank.
“I was meritoriously advanced to first class petty officer in 2018,” said Martinez. "That was definitely a great day!"
For Martinez, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Martinez hopes to continue.
“My dad and grandfather both served,” said Martinez. "My dad was Navy and my grandfather was Air Force. We all did very different things, but we also have a common bond now. Growing up listening to my dad share his stories, I never thought I'd be in the military. Now, when I go home my dad is inquisitive about what I do, and I'm interested in his service as well.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Martinez, 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 love serving in the Navy,” said Martinez. "It gives me a sense of pride. It's a great opportunity for new experiences. It's a test to your ability to adapt to new situations. It requires you to grow to meet standards."