OAK HARBOR, Wash. - Seaman Maximiliano Torres, a native of Corona, California, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Patrol Squadron (VP) 9 at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
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Photo by Alvin Plexico |
Torres graduated from Hillcrest High School in 2016.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Corona.
“I learned growing up that being humble goes a long way,” said Torres. "Nobody can give you humility and no one can take it away. Only you can choose to give that up."
Torres joined the Navy one year ago. Today, Torres serves as a yeoman.
“I joined the Navy to make a difference and to have a better financial future for my family,” said Torres.
Members of VP-9 fly and maintain the U.S. Navy’s P-8A Poseidon multi-mission maritime aircraft. Designed to secure the U.S. Navy’s future in long-range maritime patrol capability, the P-8A has transformed how the Navy’s maritime patrol and reconnaissance force will train, operate and deploy, according to Navy officials. P-8A aircraft deploy around the globe to monitor the world’s oceans wherever they are needed.
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.”
Torres has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I'm proud of putting in my officer package,” said Torres. "It took a lot to meet the qualifications, but with the help of my wife, I was able to accomplish that goal."
Torres serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Serving in the Navy is a great honor because I know I am part of the one percent who get to protect this beautiful country,” said Torres.
Torres is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I'd like to thank my wonderful wife and kids,” added Torres. “I wouldn't be here today without them."