EVERETT, Wash. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Matthew Thayer, a native of Lake Stevens, Washington, serves the U.S. Navy aboard Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility Detachment Everett at Naval Station Everett in the Pacific Northwest.
Thayer graduated from Lake Stevens High School in 2008. Additionally, Thayer earned an associate degree.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Lake Stevens.
“Growing up, I learned to keep my mouth shut and ears open,” said Thayer. “I was also taught to learn, then take what I’ve learned and teach others.”
Thayer joined the Navy nearly 16 years ago. Today, Thayer serves as an engineman.
“I joined the Navy because my grandfather served in the Navy during World War II and was an original Seabee,” said Thayer. “My other reason for joining was for college.”
Naval Station Everett, one of only two Navy-owned deep-water ports on the West Coast, is home to the command staffs of Carrier Strike Group 11 and Destroyer Group 9, six U.S. Navy ships and one Coast Guard vessel. The base enhances the nation’s ability to accomplish strategic objectives by supporting U.S. Navy and Coast Guard forces, 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.
Thayer 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.”
Thayer has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I’m most proud of getting my Engineering Officer of the Watch and Engineering Duty Officer letters as a petty officer second class,” said Thayer.
Thayer can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy gives me something to work toward,” added Thayer. “It keeps me focused on missions.”