VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Seaman Apprentice Riley Jones, a native of Washburn, Illinois, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Group (MESG) 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 |
Jones graduated from Lowpoint Washburn High in 2024.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Washburn.
“I learned how to be open and honest,” Jones said. "I also learned how to talk to others."
Jones joined the Navy one year ago. Today, Jones serves as an information systems technician.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to explore the world,” Jones said. "I've met so many new people, it's amazing."
Maritime Expeditionary Security Group (MESG) 2, headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia, delivers 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.
Jones has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I haven't been in too long, but there's so many points where I could've given up,” Jones said. "At this point, I'm the most proud of getting through all my schooling and just being where I am."
Jones 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 exploring my opportunties and options,” Jones said. "It's given me so many opportunties and allowed me to defend my country."
Jones is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I call my family every weekend, so I'd like to thank them. Particularly my mom and sister, who always helped to calm my nerves during hard times,” Jones said. "Additionally, all the mentorship I gained in the Navy has been incredible."
“I'm a big gamer, and I play the support classes a lot - the Navy has given me that opportunity to be a support, but in real life,” Jones said. "I can support my country, the Sailors around me, and the people back home."