MAYPORT, Fla. - Petty Officer 3rd Class Evelin Robles, a native of Stockton, California, is serving aboard USS Jason Dunham, 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 |
Robles, a 2013 graduate of Weston Ranch High School, joined the Navy two years ago.
“I joined the Navy to see the world,” said Robles. "Traveling is something I've always wanted to do and I am excited for next year's deployment because I will get that opportunity."
Today, Robles relies upon skills and values similar to those found in Stockton to succeed in the military.
“I come from a hard-working family, so I have had a strong work ethic instilled in me,” said Robles. "I've picked up collaterals very quickly, and I'm a stand-out person in my division because of those values."
These lessons have helped Robles while serving in the Navy.
Jason Dunham 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 Jason Dunham. 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 Robles 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's presence around the world aids in keeping trade routes secure,” said Robles. “We play a vital role in keeping our borders safe.”
Robles and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is getting all the qualifications I have in such a short time,” said Robles. “It’s not easy, but I continue to push and challenge myself every day.”
As Robles and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“I take a lot of pride in serving in the Navy,” added Robles. “I am doing my part in ensuring our country's safety.”