YOKOSUKA, Japan - Petty Officer 1st Class Megumi Thomas, a native of Yokosuka, serves the U.S. Navy in right in her hometown.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bryan Niegel |
Thomas graduated from Hanson High School in 2010, where she grew up learning the skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy.
“Being a military kid around a diverse group of people helped me be ready for Navy life,” said Thomas.
Thomas joined the Navy 12 years ago. Today, she serves as a boatswain's mate.
“I joined the Navy as a way to gain my independence,” said Thomas. ”I wanted to make my own money, live on my own and not have to rely so much on my parents.”
According to Navy officials, Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka empowers forward-deployed U.S. and Allied Forces while providing superior support to military members and their families.
Thomas 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. Most sailors in this region are part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, which has the largest area of responsibility in the world.
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.
“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.”
Thomas has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I'm just proud of what I do and that I can help sailors,” said Thomas. “I came in as an undesignated sailor and I’ve managed to build a career. Now it's important to me to be able to help other sailors coming up through the ranks.”
Thomas can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Service is all about helping my country and being a source of support for my family,” said Thomas.
Thomas is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I'm thankful for my family,” added Thomas. “My mother, father, husband and children have all supported me.”