Thursday, February 6, 2020

Penn Yan 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, Petty Officer 2nd Class Sean Moran is a part of a Naval legacy. Moran is an aviation electrician’s mate who is responsible for performing wire repairs and electrical maintenance on helicopters and is a part of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71, which supports the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis. 

“My favorite part about my job is that it is straightforward, electricity works or it doesn’t,” said Moran.

Moran is a 2015 Penn Yan Academy graduate and native of Penn Yan, New York.

According to Moran, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Penn Yan.

“I learned to get out and explore,” said Moran. “I joined the military to have new experiences and see new parts of the world.”

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. Moran is most proud of his deployments, and getting to see foreign countries. Dubai was his favorite place that he has visited because he had a lot to do there.

“I am proud of my deployments because I am serving a higher purpose because of them,” said Moran.

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

“My grandfather served in the Navy,” said Moran. “He passed away a few years ago, so it means I am continuing his legacy of service.”

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Moran, 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 I am paying back the country that gave me all my freedoms and rights,” said Moran.