MILLINGTON, Tenn. – U.S. Navy sailors from across the fleet are headed to Wisconsin for Milwaukee Navy Week, July 14 to 20, to volunteer in the community and discuss why the Navy matters to the Original Brew City.
While many of the sailors are from all over the country, this Navy Week will carry special meaning for visiting sailors from the area, including Petty Officer 2nd Class Eddreena Tuggles, a Milwaukee native.
Tuggles graduated from Messmer Catholic High School in 2014 and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in human resources through American Military University.
Upon joining the Navy, Tuggles quickly found that many of the skills and values forged in Milwaukee were the same as those needed to succeed in the Navy.
“One of the biggest lessons that’s stayed with me throughout my Navy journey came from my mom,” Tuggles said. “Growing up, she always told me, ‘Remember who you are, whose you are and where you come from.’ That simple reminder has grounded me more times than I can count.”
Tuggles said that advice has been a guiding light while serving in the Navy.
“Coming from my hometown, I learned the value of staying true to yourself no matter where life takes you,” Tuggles said. “I may be in uniform now, but I will never forget my roots or the values I was raised with — integrity, humility, and resilience. That advice from my mom helped me navigate challenging situations, stay level-headed, and carry myself with pride, even when I felt out of place or overwhelmed. In the Navy, you’re constantly being pushed and tested, but knowing who I am and where I come from keeps me steady. It’s helped me stay authentic, lead with compassion and never lose sight of the bigger picture.”
Tuggles, who joined the Navy 10 years ago, is assigned to Pre-Commissioning Unit John F. Kennedy, the Navy’s newest aircraft carrier, currently under construction in Newport News, Virginia.
“I joined the Navy at 19 years old, searching for direction, purpose, and a way to better my life,” Tuggles said. “I didn’t have a clear plan at the time; I just knew I wanted more for myself than what I saw around me. The Navy offered structure, opportunity and a chance to grow into the woman I wanted to become. Now, my service means so much more than just a job or a uniform. It represents growth, discipline and resilience. The challenges I’ve faced — mentally, emotionally and physically — have shaped me into someone who can adapt, lead, and push through anything. Becoming a mother while in the Navy added a whole new layer. Now, my service is also about providing for my son and showing him what strength and commitment look like. I take pride in knowing I’m part of something bigger, and that every sacrifice I’ve made has meaning, not just for me, but for my family and the people I serve alongside.”
Tuggles is part of the sixth Navy Week to be hosted by Milwaukee. Navy Weeks are a series of outreach events coordinated by the Navy Office of Community Outreach (NAVCO) designed to give Americans an opportunity to learn about the Navy, its people, and its importance to national security and prosperity.
“Participating in this Navy Week is essential to me because it’s a chance to bridge the gap between the Navy and the communities we serve, especially in places where people don’t often get to see the uniform up close,” Tuggles said. “It’s more than just showing up; it’s about showing people that we’re real, that we come from places just like theirs and that we carry those hometown values with us no matter where we go. Being able to engage with the community, especially young people, and letting them see someone who looks like them or comes from a similar background is powerful. It’s a reminder that the Navy is comprised of everyday people who choose to serve something greater than themselves.
“It also gives me a moment to reflect on how far I’ve come and express gratitude to the places and people who have helped shape me. Sharing my story, listening to others and giving back, even in a small way, makes me proud to wear the uniform and represent not just the Navy, but also where I come from.”
Today, Tuggles serves as an aviation ordnanceman and also works as a career counselor.
“As a departmental career counselor, my daily job is all about helping sailors shape their futures,” Tuggles said. “I manage the careers of over 200 sailors, which means I’m constantly counseling, coordinating reenlistments, updating records and ensuring everyone is set up for success, whether that’s staying in the Navy or preparing for life after service. My office is a revolving door. Sailors come in with questions, concerns or just needing some guidance, and I do my best to meet them where they are. Sometimes I’m like a career coach, other times a mentor, and occasionally a therapist with a printer and a CAC reader. It’s a lot of responsibility, but I take pride in being that person sailors can come to for honest answers and support. Helping someone get a quota, make a rate or secure their next set of orders never gets old.”
Tuggles has had many opportunities to excel in the Navy and sees military service as more than just a job – it represents a chance to become a better person.
“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is reaching my 10-year mark,” Tuggles said. “When I first joined, things weren’t easy — I had a rough start trying to find my footing and adjust to the demands of military life. Then, just three years in, I had my son. Balancing motherhood and military service was one of the biggest challenges I’ve ever faced. There were moments I didn’t think I’d make it this far, but I pushed through. I stayed committed, I grew stronger and I continued to show up, even when it was hard. Hitting 10 years isn’t just about time; it’s about everything I overcame to get here. That’s what makes me proud.”
Tuggles is grateful for the Milwaukee community and for those who helped make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank all my family members who have supported and cheered me on throughout this journey,” Tuggles added. “From the phone calls, the prayers, to the words of encouragement when I needed them most, it’s meant everything to me. A special shoutout to my mom’s side, the Gray family, and my dad’s side, the Barnes family. No matter where the Navy has taken me, I’ve always felt your love and support behind me. I carry y’all with me every step of the way.”
Since 2005, the Navy Week program has served as the Navy’s flagship outreach effort into areas of the country without a significant Navy presence, providing the public a firsthand look at why the Navy matters to cities like Milwaukee.
“From securing shipping lanes to deterring threats across the globe, the U.S. Navy has safeguarded our freedoms for two-and-a-half centuries,” said Cmdr. Julie Holland, Navy Office of Community Outreach director. “Ninety percent of global trade moves by sea, and the Navy ensures goods, energy, and critical resources reach American businesses and families. Navy Weeks bring the fleet to communities that may not see or interact with the Navy every day, giving Americans the chance to meet the sailors who stand watch 24/7 — from the depths of the ocean to space, cyberspace, and beyond. We’re excited to bring this experience to Milwaukee and connect the community with the Navy’s essential role in defending our way of life.”
While in Milwaukee, sailors will participate in community service projects with organizations such as Revitalize Milwaukee, Hunger Task Force Farm, and Ronald McDonald House. They will also engage with youth in summer programs with the Boys and Girls Club, YMCA, Journey House, and Running Rebels, and visit with students at Hamilton High School. The Navy Band will perform live at venues across the city, bringing Navy pride and energy to Milwaukee residents. Milwaukee Navy Week will also include a city proclamation with Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson at the War Memorial, July 17 at 2 p.m., to officially recognize Navy Week, honor and welcome home Vietnam veterans, and highlight the Navy’s contributions to the nation.
For a list of public events, visit https://outreach.navy.mil/Navy-Weeks/Milwaukee-2025/