SAN DIEGO – Petty Officer 3rd Class Daniel Harbaugh, a native of East Bernard, Texas, serves the U.S. Navy at Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) 1 operating out of San Diego, California.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joseph Sitter, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West |
Harbaugh was homeschooled and graduated in 2009.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in East Bernard.
“Growing up I learned to always put my best foot forward,” Harbaugh said. "In the Navy, more doors will open the better job you do. Putting your best effort every day allows you to produce the best product day in and day out."
Harbaugh joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Harbaugh serves as a steelworker.
“I joined the Navy to follow in my dad's footsteps,” Harbaugh said. "I had originally never heard of the Seabees. I was in the Navy in 2009 working as an aviation ordinanceman and then I got out to pursue law enforcement. After several years in law enforcement, I was burnt out and no longer enjoying my job. When I was coming back in, I selected steelworker because it seemed like the best opportunity both in the Navy and when I get out."
ACB 1’s primary mission is to provide logistics over-the-shore support for Amphibious Ready Group, Marine Expeditionary Force and Maritime Prepositioning Force operations, including ship-to-shore transportation of combat cargo, bulk fuel/water and tactical camp operations.
With a combination of Seabee and fleet rates, ACB-1 is skilled at offloading equipment through Improved Navy Lighterage System (INLS) operations, as well as providing camp support, perimeter defense, and limited construction support. Fleet rates qualify as craft masters and deck engineers and are proficient in operating and maintaining INLS. Seabee rates such as builders, steelworkers, electricians, equipment operators, construction mechanics and engineering aides provide construction services. Additional deployable Seabee units include Naval Mobile Construction Battalions, Construction Battalion Maintenance Units, and Underwater Construction Teams, which all make up the U.S. Naval Construction Forces.
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
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.
Harbaugh has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is graduating as an honor graduate in while 'A' school and getting promoted to petty officer third class,” Harbaugh said. "Seeing the recognition for my efforts was reassuring. To know all the hard work I put in every single day was recognized reassured me in knowing I chose the right profession."
Harbaugh serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Serving in the Navy means being part of something bigger than myself,” Harbaugh said. "The opportunity to help others while getting paid to do it is a dream I get to fulfill every day. Public service is where I find fulfillment."
Harbaugh is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would to thank my wife first and foremost,” Harbaugh said. "I would also like to thank my father and recruiter who worked through all the hurdles to get me back into the service. I wouldn't be where I am today without him."
“My favorite thing about the Navy is the people you meet,” Harbaugh added. "The opportunity to travel to places you couldn't imagine with some of your best friends has been an experience unlike any other."