VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Imani Nave Bloodsaw, a native of Houston, Texas, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, part of the Navy’s expeditionary force.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Marieliza Rosales Navy Public Affairs Support Element East |
Nave Bloodsaw graduated from Klein High School in 2016.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Houston.
“Being on the track and field team in high school and college taught me about selflessness, as well as routine and commitment,” Nave Bloodsaw said. "It gave me all the skills I needed to succeed in the Navy."
Nave Bloodsaw joined the Navy five years ago. Today, Nave Bloodsaw serves as a mass communication specialist.
“I joined the Navy to continue my family's legacy of service,” Nave Bloodsaw said.
Headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) provides oversight, training and support for the Navy’s expeditionary forces worldwide. From EOD technicians and Seabees to maritime security and logistics sailors, NECC integrates these specialized communities into a ready force capable of deploying quickly and operating wherever they’re needed. A dedicated civilian workforce stands alongside uniformed personnel, ensuring the command has the depth and expertise to keep pace with evolving missions.
NECC’s focus is clear: Arrive on Station, Stay on Station, and Sustain the Fight. By building readiness at home and enabling operations abroad, NECC ensures that expeditionary sailors are equipped, trained, and prepared to deliver when the Navy and the nation call.
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.
Nave Bloodsaw has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I'm proudest of graduating the Defense Information School and becoming a Mass Communication Specialist,” Nave Bloodsaw said. "It gives me the opportunity to be creative while also serving my country."
Nave Bloodsaw 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 that I can get to see the world, proudly wear the uniform, and make my family and friends proud,” Nave Bloodsaw said.
Nave Bloodsaw is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I'd like to thank MCC Sean Fury, he mentored me a lot,” Nave Bloodsaw said. "He encouraged me to use my skills not just in the Navy, but outside of it too, leading me to create my own business."
“My goals is to take the skills the Navy taught me and apply it to running my own media company,” Nave Bloodsaw said. "It wouldn't have been possible without the Navy, and I'm so greatful for all the opportunities."