VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Seaman Brandon Hornos, a native of Elizabeth, New Jersey, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 4, part of the Navy’s expeditionary force.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Elizabeth.
“I moved around a lot, but I have a lot of roots in my hometown,” Hornos said. "There was a strong sense of community, and I also learned the importance of humility."
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Marieliza Rosales Navy Public Affairs Support Element East |
“I joined because I felt lost in my life and didn't really know what I wanted to do. I knew the Navy could give me purpose and opportunities,” Hornos said. "I always wanted to join the military, and I wanted to do something I could feel proud of."
Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 4 falls under the command of Maritime Expeditionary Security Group (MESG) 2, headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia. They deliver the Navy’s front line of defense in coastal waters and ports around the globe. Its sailors are trained to patrol harbors, escort high-value ships, and guard maritime chokepoints where danger is most likely to appear. Whether operating from fast patrol craft or shoreside security positions, they ensure freedom of movement for U.S. and allied forces in contested environments.
MESG-2’s mission is built on vigilance and quiet strength. Their presence may not always make headlines, but their work underpins the safety of every operation that begins or ends at sea. In the littorals — where a small gap in security can have outsized consequences — MESG-2 stands as a constant, capable force, committed to keeping the Navy’s lifelines secure.
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.
Hornos has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I'm most proud of graduating ET A school,” Hornos said. "It was a very long school and was very difficult. Not seeing family was hard, but I was focused on bettering myself, and I'm proud of getting through it."
Hornos serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Serving means I can give back what this country has given me,” Hornos said. "I can give back to my community, and I can make a difference and be a positive influence."
Hornos is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I'd like to thank my parents, friends, and the friends of my family,” Hornos said. "They always helped me out whenever I was going through anything, helped me grow. I'm very greatful for that."
“I know that the navy is setting me up for life and helping me grow to become the best person I can be,” Hornos said. "It's now my way of helping both others and helping myself."