OAK HARBOR, Wash. – Aviators in the U.S. Navy fly some of the most technologically advanced aircraft in modern history. The driving force behind keeping naval aviators safely in the air are the maintainers on the ground making repairs and ensuring the aircraft are mission-ready.
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| Photo by Ashley Craig |
Petty Officer 2nd Class Celina Kisielewski, a native of Millbrook, New York, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Fleet Readiness Center Northwest (FRCNW), aboard Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Kisielewski graduated from Millbrook High School in 2008.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Millbrook.
“Growing up, I learned that the friendships and family you leave back home are more important than you realize,” said Kisielewski. “Having supportive people around you is crucial. Being away from my closest friends and family was tough, but their support and encouragement made it easier. Remembering where you came from and the people who have always been there for you is invaluable.”
Kisielewski joined the Navy seven years ago. Today, Kisielewski serves as an aviation maintenance administrationman.
“Enlisting gave me purpose and encouraged me to strive for personal growth,” said Kisielewski. “I wanted to accomplish something I could be genuinely proud of. I’ve also had the opportunity to live in Japan and deploy to various European countries, which I could only have experienced because of the Navy.”
FRCNW is the premier intermediate maintenance activity of the Pacific Northwest. With more than 1,000 sailors, civilian and contractor personnel, FRCNW provides intermediate and more sophisticated depot-level repair of more than 12,500 different aviation components. Repair services are provided for jet engines, airframes, avionics, armament, aviation life support systems, ejection seats and more than 2,300 pieces of support equipment directly supporting 22 local and deployed squadrons, 10 aircraft carriers, three overseas operational sites and numerous Pacific Northwest Regional commands and activities.
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.
Kisielewski 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.”
Kisielewski has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“One of my proudest moments was being stationed on a destroyer,” said Kisielewski. “I went from an unsure petty officer third class, still figuring out ship life, to advancing to petty officer second class and successfully filling a chief petty officer billet. It felt encouraging to prove myself and show I could lead effectively.”
Kisielewski can take pride in serving America through military service.
“It’s remarkable to realize you’re part of such a small community,” said Kisielewski. “I’ve learned the importance of leading a purpose-driven life and learning the tools to help you grow into the best version of yourself.”
Kisielewski is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my mom, Darlene, for encouraging me to join the Navy,” added Kisielewski. “She’s the one who thought this would be the right career path for me. I also want to send a shoutout to my best friend, Dani.”