YOKOSUKA, Japan - Petty Officer 1st Class Andrew McDonald, a native of Seattle serves in Japan aboard the U.S. 7th Fleet flagship, USS Blue Ridge.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bryan Niegel |
McDonald graduated from Shorecrest High School in 2008.
“I learned, growing up in Seattle that I wanted to do something different with my life,” said McDonald.
McDonald joined the Navy seven years ago. Today, McDonald serves as an information systems technician.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to defend our country against terrorists,” said McDonald. "I also had a friend in the Air Force that convinced me to serve."
Blue Ridge is the oldest operational ship in the Navy and, as the 7th Fleet command ship, supports an admiral’s staff that actively works to foster relationships with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.
U.S. 7th Fleet provides security alongside allies and partners throughout a free and open Indo-Pacific. As the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed fleet, 7th Fleet operates roughly 50-70 ships and submarines and 140 aircraft with approximately 20,000 Sailors.
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.
McDonald serves in Japan as part of the forward-deployed naval forces. These naval forces operate with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Service members in this region are part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, which has the largest area of responsibility in the world.
“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.”
McDonald has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I'm proud of earning my master's degree while serving,” said McDonald.
McDonald can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Service means always being ready to go to war if necessary,” said McDonald.