VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Lt. Keifer Valencia, a native of Indianapolis, Indiana, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Amphibious Squadron (CPR) 4, 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 |
Valencia graduated from Warren Central High School in 2012.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Indianapolis.
“I learned determination and resilience growing up,” Valencia said. "I was on the track team, but I was a very slow runner. But my coach always encouraged me to keep going which taught me resilience. Marching band also taught me a lot about teamwork."
Valencia joined the Navy nine years ago. Today, Valencia serves as an integrated fires officer.
“I always wanted to serve,” Valencia said. "My family came from the Philippines and made the U.S. their home, so I always wanted to give back to this country."
CPR-4 plans, prepares for and directs a full range of capabilities that are among the most unique and versatile in the Navy by employing the combat power of the amphibious force and the Marine Corps in the maritime, littoral and inland environments. While in port, the command is responsible for overseeing the manning, training and equipping of each amphibious ship. At sea, CPR-4 assumes tactical control to plan and execute expeditionary missions for the amphibious force.
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.
Valencia has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I would definitely say I'm proudest of graduating flight school,” Valencia said. "It was incredibly rewarding to earn my Wings of Gold after working towards them for so long."
Valencia 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 to me means defending America's ideals and protecting those I love,” Valencia said. "I think it's about giving back."
Valencia is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“First and foremost, I'd like to thank my parents, Cynthia and Archangel Valencia, who have been with me through everything,” Valencia said. "I'd also like to thank my track coach, Dennis McNulty, and my band directors, John Hilmer, Grady Emmert and Ed Meckes."
“I want to tell people to always do what's right, especially when it's not the easiest option,” Valencia said.