VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Seaman Apprentice Max Abernathy, a native of Emerald Isle, North Carolina, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Beach Master Unit (BMU) 2, operating out of Virginia Beach, Virginia.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Marieliza Rosales Navy Public Affairs Support Element East |
Abernathy graduated from Croatan High School in 2024.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Emerald Isle.
“Growing up, I learned that you have to work for everything you get,” Abernathy said. "Nothing is ever handed to you; you have to work hard."
Abernathy joined the Navy one year ago. Today, Abernathy serves as a gunner's mate.
“I joined because I wanted to help provide for my dad,” Abernathy said. "He has a disability, and I wanted to do everything I could to help him."
BMU-2 provides tactical components and expertise in support of amphibious operations. The unit enables a smooth beach landing and movement of personnel, equipment and supplies from landing craft, air cushions and mechanized and utility landing craft. Beachmasters are the final link in the chain projecting American Naval Power ashore. Since 1949, BMU-2 assets have been involved in major amphibious exercises and operations in Lebanon, Cuba, Grenada, Desert Storm, Kosovo and Afghanistan.
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.
Abernathy has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I'm definitely proudest of graduating from my ‘A’ school,” Abernathy said. "I made it into the top 10 in my class."
Abernathy serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“I'm really proud to serve my country,” Abernathy said. "I was the first person in my family to serve, and I'm proud to start that legacy."
Abernathy is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I'd like to thank my mom, Michelle, and dad, Max; they've always been supporting me,” Abernathy said. "I'd also like to thank my fiancé, Kayla Lopez."
“I can't wait to become fully qualified as a gunner’s mate,” Abernathy said. "I intend to keep working hard."