Tuesday, February 25, 2025

El Paso native serves with U.S. Navy

By Megan Lemly, Navy Office of Community Outreach

SAN DIEGO - Chief Petty Officer Brian Calderon, a native of El Paso, Texas, serves the U.S. Navy at Naval Base Point Loma.
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joey Sitter,
Navy Public Affairs Support Element West


Calderon graduated from Americas High School.

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

“Growing up in El Paso instilled in me a strong work ethic, resiliency and the importance of community,” Calderon said. “The values of perseverance, dedication and mutual support that were prevalent in my hometown have directly influenced my approach to both my Navy career and personal life. These foundational lessons have been integral in me navigating the challenges of service, fostering teamwork and remaining steadfast in the pursuit of my goals.”

Calderon joined the Navy 18 years ago. Today, Calderon serves as a machinist’s mate.

“I joined the Navy to support my family and to create a better future for them,” Calderon said. “The Navy was a way for me to contribute to their well-being while also pursuing opportunities for personal and professional growth.”

Naval Base Point Loma provides support to 70 U.S. Pacific Fleet commands headquartered on the base, including five nuclear-powered fast attack submarines. The base is also home to Cabrillo National Park and the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, which averages more than 1.2 million visitors annually.

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.

Calderon has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My proudest accomplishment without a doubt is becoming a chief,” Calderon said. “Throughout my Navy career, I’ve had countless experiences that taught me how to be a follower, a mentor and ultimately a leader. However, it wasn’t until I was accepted into the Chief’s Mess that I truly understood the significance of my journey. All of my achievements and recognitions are a reflection of the support, guidance and teamwork of my junior sailors, peers and the Chief’s Mess. Their influence has been instrumental in reaching this milestone in my career.”

Calderon 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 is about more than just a career,” Calderon said. “It is a commitment to something greater than myself. It means being part of a long-standing tradition of service, honor and sacrifice where every action contributes to the mission and wellbeing of our nation. It also means leadership, camaraderie and making a difference every day.”

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

“First and foremost, I want to thank God for guiding me along the path he has set for me,” Calderon added. “I also owe a deep debt of gratitude to my wife, Wendy, our kids Dorian and Sabastian, my mom, Aida, my dad, David, and my sister AnnMarie, for always being there for me. I know the long deployments, late hours and times we’ve went weeks without hearing each other’s voices was hard but their support through it all has meant everything to me. Lastly, I want to thank my cousin, Chuck Calderon. Since I joined the Navy, Chuck has always been there to ensure I stayed on the right path. He has been a constant mentor, sounding board and source of inspiration for me. His guidance has been instrumental in my growth and I’m grateful for his presence in my journey.”