Wednesday, March 2, 2022

Redlands native to participate in USAPL National Competition

By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach

MILLINGTON, Tenn. - A Redlands, California, native will participate in the United States of America Powerlifting (USAPL) National Championship in Lombard, Illinois, March 30. 

Petty Officer 2nd Class Eileen Hernandez is a 2016 Citrus Valley High School and 2021 Grossmont College graduate. Today, Hernandez is a Navy hospital corpsman serving with Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 123 based at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia.

"I enjoy being a corpsman because I get to help others, whether it is physically or mentally," said Hernandez. "I become a person they are comfortable with to be able to confide in."

Hernandez joined the Navy five years ago to expand her horizons. 

"I joined the Navy to get away from home and to find my own identity," said Hernandez. "In the end, I was able to make my grandparents proud for making it on my own and growing into a strong person."

Hernandez relies upon skills and values similar to those found in Redlands to succeed in the military.

"My grandfather told me that I was strong-willed and to always fight to accomplish my goals," said Hernandez. "I also gained his stubbornness, which can be a blessing in disguise when it comes to fighting for things I am passionate about."

VAW 123 is a Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron known as the World Famous "Screwtops." The "Screwtops" are an operational fleet squadron flying the E-2C Hawkeye.

According to Navy officials, The E-2 Hawkeye is the Navy's all-weather, carrier-based tactical battle management airborne early warning, command and control aircraft. The E-2 is a twin engine, five crewmember, high-wing turboprop aircraft with a 24-foot diameter radar rotodome attached to the upper fuselage. The Hawkeye uses computerized radar, Identification Friend or Foe and electronic surveillance sensors to provide early warning, threat analysis against potentially hostile air and surface targets.

Serving in the Navy means Hernandez is part of a world 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 contributes to national defense by ensuring we maintain a forward sea prescence," said Hernandez. "We are constantly at sea all around the world to ensure the safety of our home and allies."

Though there are many ways for sailors to earn distinction within their command, community and career, Hernandez is most proud of being trusted by sailors when it comes to their personal matters and seeking advice.

"I am proud that sailors see me as a helping hand, ensuring they get the care they need," said Hernandez.

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Hernandez, 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 more to me than it did as a child, because I was just fascinated with the idea of traveling," added Hernandez. "Regardless of travel, I have grown a lot while being in and learned a great deal about myself and others."

Hernandez is aviation warfare qualified and has both an Associate of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Psychology, with a minor in Evolutionary Medicine. 

Hernandez has set the Junior Calilfornia Records for squat, deadlift and total. She has qualified for Junior Nationals which will be held in Illinois on March 30, hoping to take the Junior Virginia State Records.

**See link below for additional photo**
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