Thursday, February 6, 2020

Tacoma Native Serves with Helicopter Squadron in San Diego

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

SAN DIEGO – Airman Alora Fuller, a native of Tacoma, Washington, joined the Navy to travel and experience new things. Fuller currently 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. 

Fuller is an aviation ordnanceman who is responsible for building and maintaining bombs and missiles.

Fuller is a 2018 Franklin Pierce High School graduate.

According to Fuller, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Tacoma.

“I grew up learning about guns from my dad, and he inspired a respect for weapons,” said Fuller.

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. Fuller is most proud of graduating from technical school.

“I learned the basic skills required to do my job and passed the tests required to earn this rate,” said Fuller.

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

“My father was in the Army, and my brother is still in the Air Force,” said Fuller. “I can take pride knowing that I'm able to stand on my own and take responsibility for my own life.”

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Fuller, 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 appreciate knowing that I'll be able to go to college without taking on a lot of debt, while I get to serve my country,” said Fuller.