MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Ensign Francesca Bejarano, a native of Findlay, Ohio, will graduate from the Navy’s Officer Candidate School (OCS) on Nov. 22.
Bejarano is a 2020 graduate of Findlay High School and a 2024 Ohio State University graduate.
"I joined the Navy to experience new opportunities such as meeting and leading diverse groups, traveling around the world, serving my country and continuing my family tradition of service," said Bejarano.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Findlay.
“My hometown community taught me respect, initiative and inclusivity," said Bejarano. "Those values will help me become a transformational naval officer in the fleet."
OCS is one of four officer accession programs operating at Officer Training Command Newport (OTCN). OCS is the final step in a sailor’s transition into the Naval Officer Corps. This rigorous 13-week program is comprehensive, intense, and designed to reinforce understanding of the responsibilities of a naval officer.
Located in Newport, Rhode Island, the command’s mission is to develop newly commissioned officers morally, mentally and physically, and imbue them with the highest ideals of honor, courage and commitment in order to prepare them for the Fleet. Additionally, this program prepares officers to become effective leaders by developing fundamental skills in leadership, written and oral communication, career management and administration.
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.
Bejarano 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.”
Bejarano has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
"My proudest accomplishment since serving in the Navy is achieving third place amongst my Surface Warrior peers," said Bejarano.
As Bejarano and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the U.S. Navy.
"To me, serving in the Navy means to read and develop young sailors that will serve our country with honor, courage and commitment," added Bejarano.