Manassas Native Earns ESWS Pin Aboard USS James E. Williams

By Megan Brown, Navy Office of Community Outreach

ARABIAN SEA- Petty Officer 3rd Class Moustafa Benkamsal, a native of Manassas, Virginia and 2017 Osbourn High School, recently celebrated his surface warfare insignia pinning aboard the guided missile destroyer, USS James E. Williams. The pin is earned by sailors who are trained and qualified to perform duties aboard surface this. James E. Williams is currently on deployment in the Persian Gulf.

"I learned that being realistic is the most commonly traveled road to mediocrity; If you’re going to do something put your all into it," said Benkamsal. 

Benkamsal joined the Navy three years ago to provide his nieces "an opportunity to grow and make something of themselves in a safe place." Now, he is serving as an information systems technician responsible for the shipboard network and all external communications.

James E. Williams is the namesake of Chief Petty Officer James Elliott Williams, one of the Navy's most highly decorated enlisted sailors. Through his 20 years of service, Williams earned 18 awards including the Medal of Honor and Purple Heart (with two gold stars). The ship is currently deployed to the Atlantic Ocean and is capable of conducting Anti-Air Warfare, Anti-Submarine Warfare and Anti-Surface Warfare.

Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction in their command, community and career, Benkamsal is most proud of being selected for Blue Jacket of the Quarter. 

"It proved that my drive and motivation being very junior onboard was seen," explained Benkamsal.

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

"I had a cousin who served in the Army, Sergeant Steven Booker, who was killed in action; although we didn’t know each other I know if we did we would be proud of what the other is doing in their respective branches," said Benkamsal.

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Benkamsal, 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 this Nation and being able to provide a safe country for those at home is one of the highest honors one can do for their country and in their life," added Benkamsal. "Also I get to touch the younger generation of sailors and help them grow and build themselves to do it better than I did one day."