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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jeffrey Yale |
Eighty-two years ago, members of Navy Construction Battalions were fittingly nicknamed, “Seabees,” a play on the C and B initials. They are responsible for building military bases and airfields, supporting humanitarian efforts and conducting underwater construction projects. The Seabees’ motto is “We Build, We Fight.”
Maynard is a gunner’s mate currently serving with Naval Construction Group 2 at the headquarters for naval construction forces in Gulfport, Mississippi, which serves as a home base for the Atlantic Fleet Seabees.
Maynard graduated from East Robertson High School in 2015.
Maynard joined the Navy eight years ago.
“My brother and sister both joined the military and I decided to follow in their footsteps to experience the lifestyle and basically get out of my shell," said Maynard. “My brother joined the Navy back in 2010. I saw some things in the Navy that I was very interested in. Coming from a small town, why not go see as much as I can?”
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Cross Plains.
“Living in a small town, the one thing that always stuck with me was to always remember where you came from and stay true to your roots,” said Maynard. “Every day you meet new people, so keeping an open mind of how that person is and where they’ve come from has helped me connect with people and keep building camaraderie. Being humble has made me a better person and by doing so has inspired others to balance their lifestyle.”
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.
Maynard 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.”
Maynard has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“One of my proudest accomplishments so far in my career is becoming a crew-served weapons instructor,” said Maynard. “Learning those weapon systems and being able to teach others about how they work and how to shoot them is exhilarating.”
Maynard can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy is not for everyone and some people wish to be able to join any branch of service,” said Maynard. “Being able to join and actually do the job itself is humbling. So, to me, serving in the Navy is one of the best things I could have done with my life. Everyone I’ve met and the skills I’ve learned have made me look deeper into my own self and grow into a better person.”
Maynard is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.“I want to thank my sister, Britany, and my daughter, Emma, for being in my life,” said Maynard. “Without them, I don’t know where I’d be. The constant support, advice, and love from both of them keeps me strong. Even though I’m always gone, I always keep them close, especially my little one, Emma. I wish more than anything to be there every second of every day but I will forever be there for her no matter what. I love you, Goober.”