OAK HARBOR, Wash. - Petty Officer 3rd Class Joseph Goggans, a native of Paintsville, Kentucky, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129 at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Goggans graduated from Paintsville Independent High School in 2013.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Paintsville.
“People from my hometown are hard workers,” said Goggans. "Early in my life working construction jobs, I developed a strong work ethic, as well as a desire to go above and beyond to ensure I'm as well trained in my career as possible to help my fellow coworkers, and sailors, achieve whatever is thrown at us."
Goggans joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Goggans serves as an aviation machinist's mate.
“Both my grandfathers served in the military,” said Goggans. "One was in the Air Force and the other was in the Army."
As a fleet replacement squadron (FRS), VAQ-129’s primary mission is to train new aircrew to conduct airborne electronic warfare in the EA-18G Growler. Once complete at the FRS, aircrew will be assigned to squadrons either attached to carrier air wings onboard aircraft carriers or expeditionary squadrons that forward deploy in direct support of Air Force and other Joint assets. Regardless of where they end up, the training they receive at the FRS enables these aircrew to project electronic attack dominance anywhere in the world at any time.
Built to replace the EA-6B Prowler, the EA-18G Growler is both a ground and carrier-based electronic warfare aircraft and is the cornerstone of the Joint Force’s Airborne Electronic Attack (AEA) mission. Its platform is derived from the combat-proven F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft and adds a sophisticated sensor suite that enables the suppression of enemy air defenses along with a variety of other electronic warfare operations.
The Growler has two seats, is over 60 feet long and can weigh up to 66,000 pounds when fully loaded with all missiles and electronic jammers. It can travel at speeds over 1,100 miles per hour, around 1.5 times the speed of sound.
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.
Goggans 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.”
Goggans has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I take pride in training the newer sailors so that can take over when I move on from this job,” said Goggans. "I want to make sure they're as qualified as possible."
Goggans can take pride in serving America through military service.
“The Navy gives me a deep sense of pride knowing that every day I am bettering myself and serving my country,” said Goggans. "I have learned many skills that will h elp me immensely throughout my life."
Goggans is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my parents, Phillip and Jennifer,” added Goggans. "I also want to a shoutout to my sisters, Susanna and Rebecca."