OAK HARBOR, Wash. – Aviators in the U.S. Navy fly some of the most technologically advanced aircraft in modern history. The driving force behind keeping naval aviators safely in the air are the maintainers on the ground making repairs and ensuring the aircraft are mission-ready.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Marissa Aguilera, a native of Castroville, Texas, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Fleet Readiness Center Northwest (FRCNW), aboard Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
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| Photo by Alvin Plexico |
Petty Officer 3rd Class Marissa Aguilera, a native of Castroville, Texas, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Fleet Readiness Center Northwest (FRCNW), aboard Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Aguilera graduated from Medina Valley High School in 2019.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Castroville.
“Growing up, I was always told to find things I’m good at and then to strive for excellence in doing them,” said Aguilera. “The Navy has been a perfect example of these values. Here you can learn and strengthen your skills.”
Aguilera joined the Navy four years ago. Today, Aguilera serves as an aviation structural mechanic.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself,” said Aguilera.
FRCNW is the premier intermediate maintenance activity of the Pacific Northwest. With more than 1,000 sailors, civilian and contractor personnel, FRCNW provides intermediate and more sophisticated depot-level repair of more than 12,500 different aviation components. Repair services are provided for jet engines, airframes, avionics, armament, aviation life support systems, ejection seats and more than 2,300 pieces of support equipment directly supporting 22 local and deployed squadrons, 10 aircraft carriers, three overseas operational sites and numerous Pacific Northwest Regional commands and activities.
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.
Aguilera 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.”
Aguilera has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I’m proud to be a sailor who will get things done regardless of the challenges,” said Aguilera.
Aguilera can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means being part of a tightly knit team where trust, camaraderie and mutual respect are crucial,” said Aguilera. “The Navy has instilled in me discipline, responsibility and a strong work ethic.”
Aguilera is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my parents, Abel and Marie, for supporting me,” added Aguilera. “They’re my backbone.”