SAN DIEGO - Petty Officer 2nd Class Victor Leal, a native of Houston, Texas, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Naval Base Point Loma.
 |
| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joey Sitter, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West |
Leal graduated from Jersey Village High School in 2015.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Houston.
“Growing up, I learned to always be adaptable, to keep an open mind, and always be aware of my surroundings,” Leal said. “I also try not to miss out on any opportunities that could help me professionally or personally. Knowing all of that has made me less afraid and more open to opportunities that will help me grow as a person.”
Leal joined the Navy eight years ago. Today, Leal serves as a culinary specialist (submarines).
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to accompany my friend into the military,” Leal said. “We wanted to do something with our lives. Both of us wanted to see what we could do and how we could serve our country. We were looking at joining the Army, but we thought the Navy’s uniforms looked better.”
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.
Leal has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is making petty officer second class,” Leal said. “At the time, I didn’t know if I was going to stay in more than five years or rank up. Advancing to second class was a big accomplishment. I’m going to try to go for 20 now.”
Leal 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 gives me a sense of pride and honor because I’m part of the low percentage of people who wear the uniform,” Leal said. “I’m part of something bigger than myself.”
Leal is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my friend who joined the same year as me,” Leal added. “We always check up on each other and ask how the other is doing. He’s out of the Navy now, but we still call each other all the time.”