GROTON, Conn. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Sebastian Lopez, a native of Litchfield Park, Arizona, serves as a machinist’s mate (nuclear) with pre-commissioning unit (PCU) Hyman G. Rickover, operating out of Groton, Connecticut.
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Lopez, a 2020 Westview High School graduate, joined the Navy two years ago.
“I joined the Navy to gain life experience,” said Lopez.
Skills and values similar to those found in Litchfield Park are similar to those required to succeed in the military.
“Growing up, my father taught me the importance of time management,” said Lopez.
PCU (Pre-Commissioning Unit) is a designation used by the U.S. Navy to describe crews aboard vessels under construction prior to official commissioning.
“The sailors on our pre-commissioning unit are working incredibly hard to get the future USS Hyman G. Rickover ready to join the fleet,” said Cmdr. Matthew Beach, Commanding Officer of PCU USS Human G. Rickover. “Each individual on this crew represents a different town or city in America, bringing unique life experiences and local values that contribute something special to our success. When this submarine is commissioned later this year, it will be the most advanced undersea warship in the world, delivering state-of-the-art stealth and firepower wherever America needs it. The USS Hyman G. Rickover will play a crucial role in our nation’s defense and that’s a testament to the professionalism and focus of these elite sailors. I’m sure their families and friends back home are as proud of them as I am.”
With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy.
"Our mission remains timeless - to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level," said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. "This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy."
As a member of the Navy, Lopez is part of a world-class organization focused on maintaining maritime dominance, strengthening partnerships, increasing competitive warfighting capabilities and sustaining combat-ready forces in support of the National Defense Strategy.
Lopez has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I am most proud of the strong sense of independence I have gained since joining the Navy,” said Lopez.
As Lopez and other sailors continue to perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Serving in the Navy is a chance to invest in myself and the world around me,” added Lopez.