Thursday, November 14, 2024

Brentwood native to graduate from Officer Candidate School

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Isaiah M. Williams, Navy Office of Community Outreach

Millington, Tenn. - Ensign Luis Mesa, a native of Brentwood, New York, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Naval Air Station Pensacola.

Mesa graduated from Brentwood High School in 2010. Later, Mesa graduated from Stony Brook University 2015.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Brentwood.

“Growing up in Brentwood, I learned resilience from a very young. Knowing that I had a well of inner strength that I could tap into. That was definitely helped me at OCS.” said Mesa. "Keep pushing, even when things get hard."

Mesa joined the Navy one year ago. Today, Mesa serves as an officer.

"I joined the Navy to support my family and repay all they have done for me. I also had the desire to serve in the Military but was afraid,” said Mesa. "However, my enlisted marine nephew inspired me and I took the plunge."

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.

Mesa 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 Admiral Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”

Mesa has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“Graduating from officer candidate school has reassured me that I am stronger than I give myself credit for,” said Mesa. "Also changing careers and dreams doesn't end in your 20s. At 33, I am proof that you are never too old to reach new heights."

Mesa can take pride in serving America through military service.

“Before coming to OCS I was a teacher and took great pleasure in helping develop others' talents,” said Mesa. "As an officer in the Navy, I can continue to do that. In doing so, I can pay forward the lessons I learned from my mentors and push my Sailors to be the next leaders."

Mesa is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.