MAYPORT, Fla. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Aria Robinson, a native of Buffalo, New York, is serving aboard USS Winston S. Churchill, a U.S. Navy warship, operating out of Mayport, Florida.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bryan Niegel, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
Robinson, a 2014 graduate of McKinley High School, joined the Navy six years ago.
“At first, I joined the Navy for educational purposes, but in actuality, I joined for myself and to see how far I could go doing something I never thought I was capable of,” said Robinson. “Now, I learn of all the things I am capable of every day.”
Today, Robinson relies upon skills and values similar to those found in Buffalo to succeed in the military.
“Growing up, I learned to think outside of the box and have integrity no matter what situation you end up in,” said Robinson. “People will always remember your character.”
These lessons have helped Robinson while serving in the Navy.
Winston S. Churchill is a guided-missile destroyer that provides a wide range of warfighting capabilities. The destroyer is a multi-mission ship that can operate independently or as part of a larger group of ships at sea. The ship is equipped with tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns and a phalanx close-in weapons system.
More than 300 sailors serve aboard Winston S. Churchill. Their jobs are highly specialized, requiring both dedication and skill. The jobs range from maintaining engines to handling weaponry along with a multitude of other assignments that keep the ship mission-ready at all times, according to Navy officials.
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."
Serving in the Navy means Robinson is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy is instrumental in maintaining the security of our coasts and protecting the ideals of freedom and democracy,” added Robinson.
As Robinson and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.