VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Emily Deleon, a native of Killeen, Texas, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 2, 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 |
Deleon graduated from Florence High School in 2018.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Killeen.
“I grew up in a very strict household, and that taught me a strong work ethic,” Deleon said. "I was taught you're not entitled to anything, you work for everything."
Deleon joined the Navy five years ago. Today, Deleon serves as a hospital corpsman.
“I went to college and realized that it wasn't for me; I wanted to do more,” Deleon said. "I went to paramedic school, and that's when COVID hit. That's when I decided to join the Navy."
Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 2 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.
Deleon has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I think my proudest accomplishment is my continued military bearing,” Deleon said. "I was recently selected as LPO (Leading Petty Officer), which speaks to the level of responsibility entrusted to me."
Deleon 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, above all, means being selfless and giving back,” Deleon said.
Deleon is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I have a chief, Fernando Avillon, who's been an amazing mentor for me,” Deleon said. "Even though he's not my current chief, he still helps me out."
“Being in the Navy has given me the opportunity to follow in my dad's footsteps to eventually become a police officer,” Deleon said.