VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Airman Andres Olivarez, a native of Mathis, Texas, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11, which operates the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet.
Olivarez graduated from Mathis High School in 2021.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Mathis.
“I learned that it's all right to be different,” said Olivarez. "Don't let people tell you what you can't achieve."
Olivarez joined the Navy one year ago. Today, Olivarez serves as an aviation ordnanceman.
“I joined so I could be the first member of my family to serve,” said Olivarez.
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.
Olivarez 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."
Olivarez has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest moment is when I get to load bombs and missiles for the flight missions,” said Olivarez. "I take great pride in giving my best to the Navy every day."
Olivarez can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means my family can sleep without any worries,” added Olivarez.