By Ethan Carter, Navy Office of Community Outreach
NAPLES, Italy - Petty Officer 1st Class Brian Hinkson, a native of Westpark, Florida, recently received a Flag Letter of Commendation from the Chief of Staff, Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO in Sigonella, Italy.
Hinkson is currently serving as a builder with responsibilities as a carpenter, plaster, roofer, concrete finisher, mason, painter, bricklayer and cabinet maker. He also has to run a crew, handle paperwork, deliverables and track the path of the project as well as know about each rate on a job site, what issues they have on the project and what assistance they need.
“I'm a jack of all trades and a master of none,” said Hinkson.
Hinkson joined the Navy 21 years ago to continue working in the same job field he was in as a civilian.
“I was an architectural drafter before I joined and wanted to understand how it all went together,” said Hinkson.
Hinkson is assigned to the Public Works Department aboard Naval Station Rota.
The mission of the department is to strengthen Navy and Marine Corps combat readiness worldwide through facilities lifecycle support focused on the Fleet, Fighter, and Family. To deliver sustainable, adaptable facilities; expeditionary capabilities; and contingency response to the Navy Expeditionary Combat Enterprise, all other Warfare and Provider Enterprises, the Marine Corps, Unified Commanders, and DoD Agencies. NAVFAC’s innovation, responsiveness, and agility enable a forward deployed, rotational, and surge capable Navy.
“I like being able to pass on my years of experience to my junior troops,” said Hinkson.
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers. Hinkson is most proud of the work he has put into mentoring his personnel.
“I feel a great sense of pride when I see personnel that I have mentored get promoted and now out rank me or are now officers’” said Hinkson.
According to Hinkson, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Westpark.
“I am originally from Barbados, and there is a deep sense of pride in what we do,” said Hinkson. “We have a saying, ‘either do it to the best of your ability or don't do it at all.’”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Hinkson, 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 a having a sense of pride, purpose and belonging to an organization that has given so much to different people and countries throughout its establishment,” said Hinkson.