SAN DIEGO - Petty Officer 1st Class Michael Methvin, a native of Shreveport, Louisiana, serves in the U.S. Navy assigned to Southwest Regional Maintenance Center (SWRMC) San Diego, California.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jacob Allison |
Methvin joined the Navy six years ago. Today, Methvin serves as a yeoman.
“I joined the Navy for the many educational opportunities and to grow as a young man,” said Methvin. "My grandfather is my hero, and he was also in the Navy for several years. So, joining genuinely felt like the right thing to do."
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Shreveport.
“Growing up, my grandfather would always quote Randy Travis in saying ‘Don’t ever sell your saddle, cause’ life’s a long, long ride’,” said Methvin. "I didn’t think much of it back when I was a kid, but as I’ve gotten older and matured I understand what it means. Keep pushing forward through any and every obstacle in life, never giving up. Life truly is a long ride."
SWRMC is a field activity of Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) that provides superior ship maintenance, modernization, technical support and training for the Pacific Fleet.
According to Navy officials, NAVSEA’s mission is to design, build, deliver and maintain ships, submarines and systems for the U.S. Navy. NAVSEA manages more than 150 acquisition programs and has more than 75,000 civilian and military employees at 33 activities in 16 states and three overseas continents.
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.
Methvin serves a Navy that operates 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.”
Methvin has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I’m most proud of the time I spent as part of the funeral honors detail,” said Methvin. " In a three month stretch I took part in conducting over 100 funerals for retired, separated and active duty personnel. During this time, I genuinely felt like I was helping families lay their loved ones to rest in a beautiful way."
Methvin can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy is a very fulfilling and rewarding experience. I do this because I think it is one of the most selfless things a person can do,” said Methvin. "Serving our country gives me a great sense of pride. I worked hard for my rank, qualifications and to wear this uniform. No one gifted it to me. I’ve completed a deployment that lasted over eight months, and no one can take that away from me."
Methvin is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.“I would like to thank my family,” added Methvin. "My grandparents, mom and three sisters mean a ton to me. It’s not always easy being so far away. There are a lot of missed birthdays, holidays and family gatherings. But, my family loves me and has supported me every step along the way."