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 Jackson Gish, a native of Prineville, Oregon, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Fleet Readiness Center Northwest (FRCNW), aboard Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Gish graduated from Crook County High School in 2018.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Prineville.
“From my hometown, I learned the importance of resiliency and adaptability,” said Gish. “Growing up in a close-knit community taught me how to face challenges with others and to support one another. This has been invaluable in the Navy, where teamwork and quick thinking are crucial. I also learned to appreciate the little things – whether it was family gatherings or simple outdoor activities – which has helped me stay grounded and maintain a positive outlook, even during tough deployments.”
Gish joined the Navy six years ago. Today, Gish serves as an aviation structural mechanic.
“I joined the Navy to find more opportunities beyond my small town,” said Gish. “I was also looking for personal and professional growth, adventure, and the chance to explore new places and experience new things. The Navy offered a path to expand my horizons and build a future with more possibilities.”
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.
Gish 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.”
Gish has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest moment in the Navy was successfully completing a seven-month deployment aboard the USS Momsen,” said Gish. “During this challenging evolution, I earned the rank of petty officer second class, all while leading my fellow airframers to achieve our mission. It was a remarkable experience that not only tested my skills but also strengthened our team’s camaraderie and determination.”
Gish can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means being part of something greater than myself and contributing to the defense of our nation,” said Gish. “It’s an opportunity to make a difference, not only in my own life but also in the lives of those around me.”
Gish is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank Aviation Electronics Technician 1st Class J.J. Reyna, my former leading petty officer,” said Gish. “He basically taught me how to be the leader I became on the boat. He taught me everything I needed to know about leading the crew in my work center.”
Gish is looking toward a future in military service and is thankful for the opportunities the Navy offers to those pursuing higher education.
“Additionally, serving in the Navy has provided me with the opportunity to pursue a college education,” added Gish. “I am currently working toward a bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, which could pave the way for my commissioning as a naval officer. This journey not only enhances my skills but also positions me to make a greater impact in my service.”