EVERETT, Wash. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Gary Gonzalez, a native of Lancaster, California, serves the U.S. Navy aboard Naval Station Everett in the Pacific Northwest.
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| Photo by Alvin Plexico |
Gonzalez graduated from Lancaster High School in 2011.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Lancaster.
“In my hometown, I was always a hard worker and was always looking for something new to do,” said Gonzalez. “When it comes to my personality, I’m very much a people person. It has definitely made a big impact on my career, especially when it comes to advancement. I’ve made connections with great people, great chiefs and others I’ve admired. I always try to be friends with people and try not to be negative.”
Gonzalez joined the Navy seven years ago. Today, Gonzalez serves as a culinary specialist.
“I joined the Navy to explore the world and seek new challenges,” said Gonzalez.
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.
Gonzalez 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.”
Gonzalez has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I am most proud of being able to help other sailors accomplish their goals in the Navy,” said Gonzalez. “I’ve always loved helping sailors. I wasn’t being taken care of initially when I joined the Navy, but I eventually met some good leaders and chiefs who showed me what a good leader is. I’ve taken those lessons and have given them back to my junior sailors. I couldn’t have done it without those good leaders I met.”
Gonzalez can take pride in serving America through military service.
“To me, serving in the Navy means protecting my family and loved ones,” said Gonzalez.
Gonzalez is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Eve Arsenault, who was a wonderful friend,” added Gonzalez. “She passed away but she was always true to herself and true to us. I also want to thank Senior Chief Desha from my first ship. He sat me down and schooled me on how to be a leader, how to manage my job and, most importantly, my mental health. He walked me through step-by-step on how to do things. He was passionate about his job. I will never forget what he did for me because what he did for me is what I want to do for my junior sailors.”
Gonzalez is also thankful for family.
“I’m thankful for my family, my mother and my wife, for their love and support,” added Gonzalez.