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.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Joseph Rooney, a native of Norfolk, Virginia, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Fleet Readiness Center Northwest (FRCNW), aboard Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Rooney graduated from Norview High School in 2012.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Norfolk.
“I learned that whatever you want out of life won’t come easy,” said Rooney. “You have to work at what you want to achieve your goals every day. I apply that knowledge every time I go to work and pass it down to my sailors."
Rooney joined the Navy four years ago. Today, Rooney serves as an aviation machinist’s mate.
“I joined the Navy to get better life experiences and to travel the world,” said Rooney. “I was also confused about what I wanted to do in life, and I know the Navy offers different jobs I could learn from.”
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.
Rooney 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.”
Rooney has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I think my proudest accomplishment thus far is achieving the rank of petty officer second class," said Rooney. "I worked so hard to make this rank, and I accomplished it on my first tour."
Rooney can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means a lot to me because it showcases my teamwork and leadership,” added Rooney. "It also means I can do more not only for myself but for my family, knowing I’m a figure to look up to is an everlasting achievement."