MAYPORT, Fla. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Joshua Essick, a native of York, Pennsylvania, serves with Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 40, based out of Mayport, Florida. The squadron’s primary mission is to conduct sea control operations in open-ocean and coastal environments. This includes hunting for submarines, searching for surface targets over the horizon and conducting search and rescue operations.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class James Green, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
Essick, a 2010 graduate of Red Land High School, joined the Navy eight years ago.
“I joined the Navy to further my education and to give myself an opportunity to find out what I wanted to accomplish in life,” said Essick. "I'm only way class away from my associate's degree."
Today, Essick relies upon skills and values similar to those found in York to succeed in the military.
“Growing up in York, I learned a lot about having respect for others and taking initiative to overcome adversity,” said Essick. "These skills and traits proved extremely useful and enabled me to be a successful sailor."
HSM 40 flies the U.S. Navy’s MH-60R Seahawk helicopters. The MH-60R is a twin-engine helicopter used for anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, drug interdiction, anti-ship warfare, cargo lift, and special operations, according to Navy officials.
This year commemorates 50 years of women flying in the U.S. Navy. In 1973, the first eight women began flight school in Pensacola; one year later six of them, known as "The First Six," earned their “Wings of Gold.” Over the past 50 years, the Navy has expanded its roles for women to lead and serve globally and today our women aviators project power from the sea in every type of Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard aircraft. Our Nation and our Navy is stronger because of their service.
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 Essick 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.
“Good order and discipline, which are vital to the Navy, ensure that our forces are top-notch and ready to defend the country when needed,” said Essick.
Essick and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“I was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for saving the lives of two teenagers who were drowning in the ocean,” said Essick. "I'm so thankful that I was trained in the Navy and that I was at the right place at the right time. I am also proud of having the opportunity to play on the All-Navy Men’s volleyball team in 2018 and 2023.”
As Essick and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Serving in the Navy has shown me what it means to work hard, strive for success and be respectful to those around me,” said Essick. "The Navy is a collective force that comes together no matter what your background is."
Essick is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my wife, Blanca, and my two daughters, Diana and Valentina, who support my dreams and goals in the Navy,” added Essick. "I would also like to thank my family and friends who have helped me strive for success and face adversity throughout my career."