MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Petty Officer 2nd Class Chelsea Meiller, a native of Oak Creek, Wisconsin, earns Junior Sailor of the Quarter award while serving aboard Commander Naval Air Forces Pacific.
“I joined the Navy to find a bigger purpose and see the world,” said Meiller. “I wanted to travel and connect with something bigger than myself.”
Today, Meiller serves as a mass communication specialist.
“I love being a military photojournalist because I get to tell the stories of my fellow service members and the work that they do,” said Meiller. “Telling the Navy's story to the world is incredibly challenging, but so rewarding.”
Growing up in Oak Creek, Meiller attended Oak Creek High School and graduated in 2012. Today, Meiller uses the same skills and values learned in Oak Creek to succeed in the military.
“I grew up in a smaller suburb surrounded by my family, remembering where I come from and the support I have back home has been the biggest motivator through my time in service,” said Meiller. “I grew up in a close-knit family, their love and guidance is something I carry with me to this day and use as fuel to get through whatever tough situation might come my way.”
Serving in the Navy means Meiller is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy maintains a constant presence of force around the world,” said Meiller. “We are always there to let bad actors know we are ready and able to step in at a moment’s notice.
While there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Meiller is most proud of graduating from a program at Syracuse University.
“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy has been graduating from the Military Photojournalism Program at Syracuse University,” said Meiller. “It is a yearlong program held at Syracuse University that consists of graduate-level photojournalism and storytelling classes. It is prestigious to be among the few each year that are accepted to attend and was one of the most fulfilling years of my career.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Meiller, 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 working towards a bigger cause,” added Meiller. "For me, it's about finding a larger purpose and being a part of a large team committed to the greater good."