Thursday, February 6, 2020

Oxnard Native Serves with “The First and Finest” Helicopter Squadron

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

SAN DIEGO – As a member of the oldest Maritime Strike Squadron helicopter squadron, Seaman Apprentice Jermiah Callado is a part of a Naval legacy. Callado is a yeoman who is responsible for the administrative readiness of the unit. He is currently serving with of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71, which supports the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis

“I like that the work is not too hard and I help take care of sailors,” said Callado.

Callado is a 2018 Channel Islands High School graduate and native of Oxnard, California.

According to Callado, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Oxnard.

“I learned to be respectful to others, because there is a lot of people higher ranking than me,” said Callado.

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. However, Callado is most proud of getting promoted to seaman apprentice because it is one step closer to becoming a petty officer.

“I worked really hard and am proud because I stood out and was able to get promoted,” said Callado.

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

“My uncle is a retired master chief Seabee and that is why my family moved to California,” said Callado. “It means a lot to me because I was one of the few people in my family who joined the military and carried on the family tradition. My uncle is proud of me for joining.”

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Callado, 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 a lot to me because it helped me start my life after high school and it makes me proud that I am serving the U.S. in some way,” said Callado.