GULFPORT, Miss. - Since 1942, sailors assigned to the U.S. Navy’s Construction Force have been building and fighting around the world. Petty Officer 2nd Class Stephanie Swatts, a native of El Paso, Texas, is one of those sailors.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jeffrey Yale |
Swatts is a builder 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.
Swatts graduated from Bel Air High School in 2015.
Swatts joined the Navy nine years ago.
“I joined the Navy for more opportunities and to experience different places, cultures and foods," said Swatts. “The Navy was more appealing to me than the other branches. It seemed cool to me.”
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in El Paso.
“Growing up in my hometown, I learned to make the best of what you have,” said Swatts. “It’s really taught me to be resilient and it’s a quality that goes a long way in the military.”
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.
Swatts 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.”
Swatts has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I’m most proud of my current duty station,” said Swatts. “I am a tactics instructor, which has molded me into the person I am today. I am more confident in my abilities to lead, which has helped me excel in my Navy career.”
Swatts can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy has become a great part of my life,” said Swatts. “I thought I would get out after my first tour, but I realized that the Navy has provided a lot for me.”
Swatts is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my mother, Lidia Perez, and my grandmother, Graciela Ibarra, for their love and support these last nine years,” said Swatts. “They’ve grounded me in times where I’ve missed home.”