VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Chief Petty Officer Morgan Koppes, a native of Bucksport, Maine, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek.
 |
| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Klineizquierdo |
Koppes graduated from Bucksport High School in 2001.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Bucksport.
“Growing up, I learned it’s important to remember where you came from,” said Koppes. “Don’t change who you are just to try to fit in.”
Koppes joined the Navy 11 years ago. Today, Koppes serves as an electrician’s mate.
“I’m continuing a family legacy with my service,” said Koppes. ”My dad, Wayne, was in the Navy. We had a pretty good life growing up, so I figured I could do the same for my family.”
According to Navy officials, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story is the country’s premier installation for housing and training the nation’s expeditionary forces. It is one command with two properties: Joint Expeditionary Base Fort Story and JEB Little Creek. The Joint Expeditionary Base is comprised of the former Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek and the Army Post of Fort Story. Fort Story witnessed the humble beginnings of the nation at the 1607 first landing site. Little Creek began as a dynamic training ground for World War II amphibious forces.
With 90% 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 recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Koppes serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”
Koppes has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“Making chief is what I’m most proud of,” said Koppes. “It has given me an opportunity to positively impact even more sailors.”
Koppes can take pride in serving America through military service.
“I joined the Navy to serve my country and support my family,” said Koppes. “With my father being in the Navy, I knew what I was getting into with long deployments and sacrifices.”
Koppes is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my dad, Wayne, and my mom, Carla, for always being there, being supportive and pushing me in the right direction when I needed it,” added Koppes. “I also want to send a shoutout to my brother, Nathan, and his fiancé, Jessica Dinardo.”