Spring Creek native successfully completes United States Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program

 By Megan Brown, Navy Office of Community Outreach

MILLINGTON, Tenn. – A Spring Creek, Nevada, native successfully completed the United States Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program at Naval Nuclear Power Training Command.

The Naval Nuclear Power Training Command is a program element of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program and is responsible for educating enlisted and commissioned personnel of the U.S. nuclear naval program.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Marquese Swett attended Elko High School and graduated in 2020. Swett joined the Navy one year ago.

"I joined the navy to enjoy new life experiences," said Swett.

According to Swett, the skills needed to succeed in the military are similar to those learned in Spring Creek.

"A few pieces of advice that stuck with me from my hometown are that your family will be there for you, no matter the circumstances," said Swett. "I also learned that every day you should worry about being better than you were yesterday, and not worry about the people around you."

Today, Swett serves as a machinist's mate (nuclear). 

Machinist’s mates (nuclear) operate and maintain steam turbines and reduction gears used for nuclear ship propulsion and auxiliary machinery such as turbogenerators, pumps and oil purifiers. They also maintain auxiliary machinery outside of main machinery spaces, such as electrohydraulic steering engines and elevators, refrigeration plants, air conditioning systems and desalinization plants. They may also operate and maintain compressed gas producing plants. Nuclear-trained MMs perform duties in nuclear propulsion plants operating reactor control, propulsion and power generation systems.

Serving in the Navy means Swett 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.

There are many opportunities for sailors, such as Swett, to earn recognition in their command, community and careers while serving in the Navy.

"I am most proud of helping my shipmates achieve their goals as well as mine," said Swett, 

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Swett, 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 to me that I'm part of something greater than my own life," added Swett.