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 Joshua Gonzalez, a native of Nunda, New York, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Fleet Readiness Center Northwest (FRCNW), aboard Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
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Photo by Alvin Plexico |
Petty Officer 2nd Class Joshua Gonzalez, a native of Nunda, New York, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Fleet Readiness Center Northwest (FRCNW), aboard Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Gonzalez graduated from Keshequa High School in 2010.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Nunda.
“My hometown taught me lessons of hard work, dedication and sticking it out when it’s tough,” said Gonzalez. “I believe these lessons will pay off in the long run.”
Gonzalez joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Gonzalez serves as an aviation structural mechanic.
“I enlisted in the Navy to better myself and to serve my country,” said Gonzalez. “Both of my parents were in the Navy, so joining this branch of service seemed right.”
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.
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.
“Being promoted to petty officer second class and sharing this moment with my wife is what I’m most proud of so far in my career,” said Gonzalez.
Gonzalez can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy truly means a lot to me because I’m following in my parents’ footsteps,” said Gonzalez. “Additionally, it has provided me with the opportunity to provide for my family. My life has improved 110% since before I enlisted.”
Gonzalez is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my mother, Christine Cleveland, for supporting me,” added Gonzalez. “Of course, I want to thank my wife, Mariejelle Fajardo, for always being there.”