Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
SAN DIEGO – As a member of the oldest Maritime Strike Squadron, Lt. j.g. Nickalas Stennes is part of a Naval legacy. Stennes is a pilot responsible for flying helicopters as part of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71, which supports the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis.
“In addition to my primary job of flying, I’m also responsible for ensuring that everyone in the squadron works safely and effectively so that we can all go home safely at the end of the day,” said Stennes.
“I love flying helicopters,” added Stennes. "Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to fly, and this gives me a great opportunity to serve my country and do what I love."
Stennes is a 2010 Stillwater Area High School graduate and native of Stillwater, Minnesota. He also graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2015 with a construction management degree.
According to Stennes, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Stillwater.
“Hard work pays off,” said Stennes. "Flight school is challenging, so learning about the importance of hard work helped me understand that I would eventually earn my wings of gold.”
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. Stennes is most proud of earning his designation as a U.S. Navy pilot.
“Earning my wings and becoming an official Naval aviator means a lot to me,” said Stennes.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Stennes, 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.
“The Navy is a close-knit family dedicated to liberty and defending freedom,” said Stennes. "Especially with a nation divided on political lines, we're all just focused on our mission."
“I love flying helicopters,” added Stennes. "Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to fly, and this gives me a great opportunity to serve my country and do what I love."
Stennes is a 2010 Stillwater Area High School graduate and native of Stillwater, Minnesota. He also graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2015 with a construction management degree.
According to Stennes, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Stillwater.
“Hard work pays off,” said Stennes. "Flight school is challenging, so learning about the importance of hard work helped me understand that I would eventually earn my wings of gold.”
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. Stennes is most proud of earning his designation as a U.S. Navy pilot.
“Earning my wings and becoming an official Naval aviator means a lot to me,” said Stennes.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Stennes, 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.
“The Navy is a close-knit family dedicated to liberty and defending freedom,” said Stennes. "Especially with a nation divided on political lines, we're all just focused on our mission."