VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Robert Mack, a native of Lorton, Virginia, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, which operates the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Adriones Johnson |
Mack graduated from Hayfield Secondary School in 2008.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Lorton.
“Growing up outside of the D.C. area, I experienced the attack on the Pentagon on 9/11, when I was 11,” said Mack. “My wife grew up on Staten Island and experienced the attack on the World Trade Center during 9/11. She could see the smoke from her house. These acts of terrorism embedded a sense of solidified patriotism in both of us.”
Mack joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Mack serves as an aviation electrician's mate.
“I joined the Navy for a myriad of reasons,” said Mack. “I was growing tired of the New York City film industry. The Navy provided me with the means and opportunity to get married and better provide for my family. My dad is a retired commander, and he spoke fondly of his Navy service. I enjoy talking with my dad, knowing how proud he is of me.”
The Super Hornet is one of the most advanced aircraft in the world, according to Navy officials. The aircraft take off from and land aboard Navy aircraft carriers at sea and are capable of conducting air-to-air combat as well as striking targets on land.
Navy aircraft carriers are designed for a 50-year service life. When the air wing is embarked, the ship carries more than 70 attack fighter jets, helicopters and other aircraft, all of which take off from and land aboard the carrier at sea. With more than 5,000 sailors serving aboard, the aircraft carrier is a self-contained mobile airport.
Aircraft carriers are often the first response to a global crisis because of their ability to operate freely in international waters anywhere on the world’s oceans.
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.
Mack 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.”
Mack has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I’m proud that I achieved the rank of petty officer second class and earned my plane captain qualifications,” said Mack.
Mack can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy gives me a sense of duty,” said Mack. “I feel grateful to go home every day and kiss my wife knowing that there is a worldwide force that I am a part of helping keep us all safe.”
Mack is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I’d like to send a shoutout to my in-laws, Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Breyer Jr., who live on Staten Island,” added Mack. “Of course, I want to thank my mom and dad, Mr. and Mrs. Allen Mack, who live in Lorton. I appreciate their continuous love and support while I’m away doing my Navy duty.”