YOKOSUKA, Japan - Petty Officer 1st Class Andrew Frazier, a native of Shelbyville, Tennessee, serves in Japan aboard a forward-deployed U.S. Navy warship.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bryan Niegel |
Frazier graduated from Shelbyville Central High School in 2007.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Shelbyville.
“Growing up, I learned that treating everyone with dignity and respect goes a long way,” said Frazier. “Here in the Navy we work with people from around the world and we need to get along to get the job done.”
Frazier joined the Navy 15 years ago. Today, Frazier serves as an information systems technician.
“When I graduated from high school, college seemed too expensive for me and there were no jobs available,” said Frazier. “I joined because the Navy offered me the opportunity to earn a paycheck, see the world and protect my country.”
USS Rafael Peralta, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, provides a wide range of warfighting capabilities in multi-threat air, surface and subsurface environments.
A Navy destroyer is a multi-mission ship that can operate independently or as part of a larger group of ships at sea. The ship is equipped with tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns and a phalanx close-in weapons system.
More than 300 sailors serve aboard Rafael Peralta. Their jobs are highly specialized, requiring both dedication and skill. The jobs range from maintaining engines to handling weaponry along with a multitude of other assignments that keep the ship mission-ready at all times, according to Navy officials.
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.
Frazier 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.”
Frazier has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I am most proud of the humanitarian work I have been a part of including bringing generators, food and water to the island of Siam after a hurricane hit,” said Frazier.
Frazier can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving your country means being a part of something bigger than yourself,” said Frazier. “In the Navy, you are on the front line of the news and see the world through a different lens.”
Frazier is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my family for always being there for me and helping me become the man I am today,” added Frazier
Frazier offered some words of advice for those who may be seeking a career in the Navy.
“The Navy offers many financial, education and health benefits that can help anyone set themselves up for a brighter future,” added Frazier.