SAN DIEGO - Petty Officer 3rd Class Bennie Pearson, a native of Virginia Beach, Virginia, 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 |
Pearson graduated from Greenwood High School in 2022.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Virginia Beach.
“Being from Virginia Beach I learned how to communicate effectively with all walks of life,” Pearson said. "I also developed my emotional intelligence to have a better understanding of where everyone is coming from."
Pearson joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Pearson serves as an aviation boatswain's mate (equipment).
“I was inspired by my dad to join the Navy,” Pearson said. "He showed me all the cool opportunities the Navy offered him. From the fulfilling work to the places he got to go, I wanted to follow in his footsteps and make him proud."
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.
Pearson has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment so far was receiving several qualifications while ranking up,” Pearson said. "In the Navy, there are several requirements we need and to be able to achieve those qualifications while still being recognized through promotions, proved to me that I chose the right profession."
Pearson serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation's prosperity and security.
“Being in the Navy means having the opportunity to serve my country serve a greater purpose for both others and myself,” Pearson said. "I have the opportunity to positively impact the world and see the fruits of my labor."
Pearson is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my wife and my dad,” Pearson added. "My wife has encouraged me every step of the way despite being in school herself. My wife, family, and friends have provided the support system for me to be successful in my career."