Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tim Miller
SAN DIEGO – As a member of the oldest Maritime Strike Squadron helicopter squadron, Airman Apprentice Keller Curry is a part of a Naval legacy. Curry is an aviation structural mechanic who is responsible for working on the aircraft and repairing the hydraulics systems. Curry 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 working with others and probably just getting to know them,” said Curry.
Curry is a 2019 Colony High School graduate and native of Wasilla, Alaska.
According to Curry, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Wasilla.
“I definitely got my social skills and patience from Wasilla,” said Curry. “I was able to get out and socialize with others since there wasn’t a ton of people. I got my patience from my dad.”
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. However, Curry is most proud of enlisting.
“I am serving the country and doing great things so far,” said Curry.
For Curry, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Curry hopes to continue.
“Three or four members of my family have served,” said Curry. “I think it is a really good thing to keep doing. It says that I want to keep trying for everyone else and show that I want to be more like them.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Curry, 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 there for others and am serving along my brothers and sisters with honor, pride and commitment,” said Curry.
Curry is a 2019 Colony High School graduate and native of Wasilla, Alaska.
According to Curry, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Wasilla.
“I definitely got my social skills and patience from Wasilla,” said Curry. “I was able to get out and socialize with others since there wasn’t a ton of people. I got my patience from my dad.”
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. However, Curry is most proud of enlisting.
“I am serving the country and doing great things so far,” said Curry.
For Curry, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Curry hopes to continue.
“Three or four members of my family have served,” said Curry. “I think it is a really good thing to keep doing. It says that I want to keep trying for everyone else and show that I want to be more like them.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Curry, 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 there for others and am serving along my brothers and sisters with honor, pride and commitment,” said Curry.