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 Chandler Rowse, a native of Savannah, Georgia, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Fleet Readiness Center Northwest (FRCNW), aboard Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Rowse graduated from Effingham County High School in 2019.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Savannah.
“Growing up, I was always taught that no matter your life circumstances if you work hard and stick to it you can accomplish just about anything,” said Rowse. "That’s made an impact with the Navy because sometimes it can be very hard and mentally draining, but if you continue to push through everything, it will turn out just fine."
Rowse joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Rowse serves as an aviation maintenance administrationman.
“I joined the Navy for a fresh start in life and to have the opportunity to experience things that I couldn't back home,” said Rowse.
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.
Rowse 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.”
Rowse has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is going back to college to better myself,” said Rowse. "Before the Navy, I dropped out of college and never thought that I would go back again. I am also thankful for the opportunity to help junior sailors achieve their goals."
Rowse can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means a lot to me,” said Rowse. "It has allowed me to better myself in almost every aspect of my life, as well as the opportunity to one day give my future family the life they deserve."
Rowse is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to send a shoutout to my little brother, Bryce,” added Rowse.