Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
SAN DIEGO – As a member of the newest Maritime Strike Squadron, Petty Officer 3rd Class Haonan Cheng is continuing a tradition while also creating a new legacy. Cheng is an aviation machinist's mate, serving with Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 78 which supports the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson.
Cheng immigrated from China to San Gabriel, California when he was 18.
According to Cheng, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in San Gabriel.
"There is a great deal of diversity of work in the Navy, which is similar to the different types of jobs in San Gabriel," said Cheng.
According to Navy officials, maintaining maritime superiority is a vital part of a Navy that is present today and prepared for tomorrow. The impact affects Americans and their interests around the world, as more than 70 percent of the Earth is covered by water and 90 percent of all trade travels by sea.
Helicopters are equipped with the ability to conduct replenishments at sea, search and rescue missions and support operations. Sailors assigned to HSM-78 participate in these operations, along with anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface weapons systems missions.
The helicopter squadron’s mascot is a blue hawk, which is symbolic of the dominance, versatility and lethality Seahawk helicopters have in combat.
The foundation of the Navy the nation needs includes a focus on warfighting, warfighters and the future of the fighting force.
“I am confident that we will maximize the Navy we have today while delivering the Navy that our nation will rely upon tomorrow,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “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.”
HSM-78 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.
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers. Cheng is most proud of earning his aviation qualifications.
“I know I'm making myself better with every qualification I earn,” said Cheng. "It's important to learn as much as I can so that I can do the job I'm supposed to do and gain confidence in what I'm doing."
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Cheng, 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'm honored to protect my family and this country while making myself better every day,” said Cheng. "This is a turning point for me in my life. It's why I joined the Navy. I look forward to what I'll be able to do in the future."
According to Cheng, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in San Gabriel.
"There is a great deal of diversity of work in the Navy, which is similar to the different types of jobs in San Gabriel," said Cheng.
According to Navy officials, maintaining maritime superiority is a vital part of a Navy that is present today and prepared for tomorrow. The impact affects Americans and their interests around the world, as more than 70 percent of the Earth is covered by water and 90 percent of all trade travels by sea.
Helicopters are equipped with the ability to conduct replenishments at sea, search and rescue missions and support operations. Sailors assigned to HSM-78 participate in these operations, along with anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface weapons systems missions.
The helicopter squadron’s mascot is a blue hawk, which is symbolic of the dominance, versatility and lethality Seahawk helicopters have in combat.
The foundation of the Navy the nation needs includes a focus on warfighting, warfighters and the future of the fighting force.
“I am confident that we will maximize the Navy we have today while delivering the Navy that our nation will rely upon tomorrow,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “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.”
HSM-78 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.
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers. Cheng is most proud of earning his aviation qualifications.
“I know I'm making myself better with every qualification I earn,” said Cheng. "It's important to learn as much as I can so that I can do the job I'm supposed to do and gain confidence in what I'm doing."
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Cheng, 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'm honored to protect my family and this country while making myself better every day,” said Cheng. "This is a turning point for me in my life. It's why I joined the Navy. I look forward to what I'll be able to do in the future."