EVERETT, Wash. - Seaman Diana Mendez Garcia, a native of Los Angeles, California, serves the U.S. Navy at Naval Station Everett in the Pacific Northwest.
Mendez Garcia graduated from Cesar Chavez High School in 2021.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Los Angeles.
“It's important not to give up,” said Mendez Garcia. "It may not be easy, but if you keep trying you can succeed."
Mendez Garcia joined the Navy eight months ago. Today, Mendez Garcia serves as a culinary specialist.
“I was looking for something different in my life,” said Mendez Garcia.
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.
Mendez Garcia 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.”
Mendez Garcia has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I'm proud that I have the opportunity to grow professionally in the Navy,” said Mendez Garcia.
Mendez Garcia can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy is not just a job for me,” added Mendez Garcia. "It's a new family and a new way of life."