Thursday, October 9, 2025

Walker native serves with Navy expeditionary force in Virginia

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sylvie Carafiol, Navy Office of Community Outreach

Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Marieliza Rosales, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Chief Petty Officer Melvin Golmond, a native of Walker, Louisiana, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 2, part of the Navy’s expeditionary force.
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class
 Marieliza Rosales
 Navy Public Affairs Support Element East


Golmond graduated from Walker High School in 2007.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Walker.

“I learned how to be a positive impact to my community and it gave me a good work ethic,” Golmond said.

Golmond joined the Navy 17 years ago. Today, Golmond serves as a master-at-arms.

“I was exposed to the Navy early - my dad was in the navy,” Golmond said. "At the age of five, I said I wanted to join the Navy and that never changed."

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.

Golmond has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My proudest accomplishment is definitely becoming a Chief,” Golmond said. "With my dad being in the Navy, making Chief definitely brought pride and honor to my family."

Golmond serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

“I'm proud of serving my country, but beyond that, it's given me so many opportunies,” Golmond said. "I've been all over the world and seen so many new things."

Golmond is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“Iwant to thank my mother, Delia, and father, Edward. Also my siblings Melissa and Ezekiel,” Golmond said. "They've always supported me through thick and thin."

“I think the Navy is a great opportunity to be able to get out and see the world,” Golmond said. "You get so many incredible experiences."