SAN DIEGO - Petty Officer 3rd Class Andrew Salvatierra, a native of Long Beach, California, serves aboard USS Abraham Lincoln, a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier operating out of San Diego, California.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joseph Sitter, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West |
Salvatierra graduated from West High School in 2020.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Long Beach.
“I learned growing up to be the best version of myself,” Salvatierra said. "I also learned to always remain consistent with my goals to pursue physical, professional and personal excellence."
Salvatierra joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Salvatierra serves as an aviation boatswain's mate (handling).
“I joined the Navy because college wasn’t for me and it looked the best opportunity at the time,” Salvatierra said. "My stepdad guided me towards the Navy because he thought it would be the best fit for me. Once he mentioned it and I educated myself on the opportunities in the Navy, I decided it was the best branch for me."
Aircraft carriers are the centerpiece of America’s Naval forces. For more than 100 years, they have projected power, sustained sea control, bolstered deterrence, provided humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and maintained enduring commitments worldwide.
According to Navy officials, aircraft carriers are versatile and have unique mission capabilities that make them a more strategic asset for the Navy than fixed-site bases. They are often the first response in a global crisis because of their ability to operate freely in international waters anywhere on the world’s oceans. In addition, no other weapon system can deploy and operate forward with a full-sized aircraft carrier’s speed, endurance, agility and combat capability of its air wing.
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.
Salvatierra has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I joined the Navy to be a part of the crash and salvage crew,” Salvatierra said. "I was told to stand out in my rate to get this opportunity. I pursued excellence in all aspects of my job and was rewarded with my selection."
Salvatierra serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation's prosperity and security.
“My proudest accomplishment is knowing that I have a purpose every day,” Salvatierra said. " Having the opportunity to hear how much pride my family has in my profession is unlike anything I have experienced.”
Salvatierra is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my stepdad, Nick, and my parents,” Salvatierra added. "They helped guide me towards the Navy. I also want to thank my brother who I wanted to inspire to pursue greatness because he inspires me every day.”