VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Petty Officer 1st Class Arlene Grajeda, from Jones, Isabela, Philippines, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Klineizquierdo |
Grajeda graduated from La Salette of Jones in 2000.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Jones.
“Growing up, I learned that decision-making is critical, especially when there are things that have to be decided right now,” said Grajeda.
Grajeda joined the Navy seven years ago. Today, Grajeda serves as a culinary specialist.
“I saw women in the military looking professional, and I wanted to be the same or maybe even better,” said Grajeda.
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.
Grajeda 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.”
Grajeda has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I’m proud of the personal recognition I’ve received for all my hard work in the military,” said Grajeda. “When we had inspections, I received high scores and three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals.”
Grajeda can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means that we can provide for peace and freedom to my country and other countries around the world,” said Grajeda.
Grajeda is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank all my family back home in the Philippines for believing in me,” added Grajeda.