Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
SAN DIEGO – Airman Dominic Washington, a native of Pasadena, California, joined the Navy to travel and see the world. Now, two years later, Washington 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.
Washington is an aviation ordnanceman who is responsible for building and breaking down missiles and bombs that go on aircraft.
“It's a special honor to provide the weapons needed to meet the mission, especially when we provide missiles and bombs to support special forces in the Middle East,” said Washington.
Washington is a 2016 Reseda High School graduate.
According to Washington, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Pasadena.
“I learned the importance of treating others the way you want to be treated,” said Washington. "I also learned the importance of not taking anyone's word for granted."
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. Washington is most proud of earning both aviation and surface warfare qualifications.
“I had to study a great deal, stay focused and take responsibility for learning what I needed to know,” said Washington. "It was important not to get sidetracked by anything."
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Washington, 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 want to do something that my parents will be proud of because now I'm on my own and doing something good for others and the country,” said Washington.
“It's a special honor to provide the weapons needed to meet the mission, especially when we provide missiles and bombs to support special forces in the Middle East,” said Washington.
Washington is a 2016 Reseda High School graduate.
According to Washington, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Pasadena.
“I learned the importance of treating others the way you want to be treated,” said Washington. "I also learned the importance of not taking anyone's word for granted."
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. Washington is most proud of earning both aviation and surface warfare qualifications.
“I had to study a great deal, stay focused and take responsibility for learning what I needed to know,” said Washington. "It was important not to get sidetracked by anything."
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Washington, 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 want to do something that my parents will be proud of because now I'm on my own and doing something good for others and the country,” said Washington.