MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Petty Officer 1st Class Marshal Tripp, a native of Lakeside, California, serving aboard USS Nantucket, recently completed a visit to the ship's namesake island, June 18-22.
During the four-day visit, sailors strengthened relationships with the local community and the ship’s commissioning committee by participating in a variety of community relations events. Some of the events included visiting the Nantucket Whaling Museum, Sankaty Head Lighthouse and the Nantucket Anglers’ Club. Sailors also took a historical walking tour of the island and had a community reception at the Great Harbor Yacht Club.
Tripp graduated from El Capitan High School in 2012.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Lakeside.
"I played lacrosse in high school, and just like any sport, working as a team is crucial," Tripp said. "The Navy is the same way. In order to be successful, a division, department, or command, a ship has to work as a team."
Tripp joined the Navy 13 years ago. Today, Tripp serves as an engineman.
"I joined the Navy because I wanted a career and to see the world," Tripp said.
USS Nantucket is the fourth U.S. Navy ship to bear this namesake, dating back to 1863 when the first USS Nantucket, a Passaic-class single-turret monitor, was commissioned. The Passaic-class Nantucket supported the U.S. Navy’s South Atlantic Blockade and played a critical role during the Civil War. The future USS Nantucket will commission on Saturday, Nov. 16, in Boston.
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.
Tripp has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
"My proudest moment in the Navy is being selected as Sailor of the Year," Tripp said. "It was not just my own hard work that got me there, but my sailors as well. I couldn't have done it without them."
Tripp 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 a lot to me," Tripp said. "It has given me purpose and taught me a lot about myself. My strengths and weaknesses, and how to adapt myself and for others."
Tripp is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
"I'd like to give a shoutout to my family back home," Tripp added. "I miss them and will see you soon."