SAN DIEGO – Petty Officer 3rd Class Gabriel Foster, a native of Hartford City, Indiana, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM 73).
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Isaiah Williams |
Foster graduated from Blackford Junior Senior High School in 2022.
Foster joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Foster serves as an aviation machinist's mate.
“My grandfather's brother was a Top Gun pilot,” said Foster. "At family events, he always spoke about his time in the service. Those stories fired me up as I grew up and I wanted to join. I am preparing to submit a package to the U.S. Naval Academy because I want to become a naval officer and become a pilot as well."
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Hartford City.
“Growing up, I learned that a strong work ethic, a good attitude and dedication will help you go wherever you want to go,” said Foster.
Foster joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Foster serves as an aviation machinist's mate.
“My grandfather's brother was a Top Gun pilot,” said Foster. "At family events, he always spoke about his time in the service. Those stories fired me up as I grew up and I wanted to join. I am preparing to submit a package to the U.S. Naval Academy because I want to become a naval officer and become a pilot as well."
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Hartford City.
“Growing up, I learned that a strong work ethic, a good attitude and dedication will help you go wherever you want to go,” said Foster.
According to Navy officials, members of HSM 73 fly and maintain the MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, the Navy’s most advanced rotary wing maritime strike platform. The Navy MH-60R is able to perform many different missions. Some of the most common operations include strikes on maritime targets, submarine hunting and attack, electronic warfare, search and rescue, medical evacuations and supply support.
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.
Foster 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.”
Foster has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I was recently chosen to be a part of a detachment, and that is my proudest achievement,” said Foster. "This was big because only the best of the best maintainers get chosen for this responsibility. This detachment embarks Navy ships to support the helicopter squadrons that travel with the carrier strike group."
Foster can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy is very fulfilling because I get to be a part of something bigger than myself,” said Foster. "The Navy gives me the opportunity to put people first."
Foster is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
Foster has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I was recently chosen to be a part of a detachment, and that is my proudest achievement,” said Foster. "This was big because only the best of the best maintainers get chosen for this responsibility. This detachment embarks Navy ships to support the helicopter squadrons that travel with the carrier strike group."
Foster can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy is very fulfilling because I get to be a part of something bigger than myself,” said Foster. "The Navy gives me the opportunity to put people first."
Foster is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my stepdad, Clay Smith, my mom, Pam, and dad John,” added Foster. "My stepdad was prior service. He helped me on my way into the service. My mom was always there for me. My dad taught me a strong work ethic and the value of not giving up."