SAN DIEGO - Chris Menzie, a native of Toledo, Ohio, 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 |
Menzie served six years in the Navy as a journalist before leaving active duty to join the federal service as a U.S. Navy civilian public affairs professional, a job he’s done for 13 years.
“I wanted to get into a public relations field, but there weren’t any entry-level opportunities where I lived,” said Menzie. "So, the easiest way to enter that realm was to go into the military."
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Toledo.
“My interest in writing, photography and communication was developed in college,” said Menzie. "I learned what I was good at, and so I was looking for way to make a career that matched my skills and my interests."
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.
Menzie 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.”
Menzie has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is that I get to serve in a field where I enjoy coming to work every day,” said Menzie. "Not everyone has the opportunity to work in a job they enjoy. I'm very fortunate that I've been able to continue working in a field that I'm good at and enjoy doing."
Menzie can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy helps me reflect upon the many ways we impact what folks do across America,” said Menzie. "For example, the Navy serving around the world helps keep the commerce flowing, which helps keep prices lower and the economy going."
Menzie is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.“I want to thank my wife for her understanding and willingness to be a part of this military commitment,” added Menzie. "This is true for any family member willing to make the necessary sacrifices."