VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Edgardo Gonzalez, from the Bronx, New York, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Assault Craft Unit Four (ACU-4), operating out of Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Gonzalez graduated from John F. Kennedy High School in 2001.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in the Bronx.
“Growing up in the Bronx definitely taught me patience,” Gonzalez said. "Good things happen to those who wait. You just have to be patient, work hard, and you'll be rewarded."
Gonzalez joined the Navy five years ago. Today, Gonzalez serves as a yeoman.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted something different,” Gonzalez said. "I wanted to see the world and experience new things."
ACU-4 provides combat-ready landing craft, air cushions (LCACs) to conduct operational missions worldwide. Combining high speed, exceptional maneuverability and long-range qualities with the ability to travel over land, these unique connectors provide added versatility to the amphibious force and can deliver vehicles, personnel and cargo from ship to shore and back.
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.
Gonzalez has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I'm definitely the most proud of becoming a second class petty officer in five years,” Gonzalez said. "Five years is pretty fast for my rate. I think it highlights my hard work."
Gonzalez 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 structure and commitment,” Gonzalez said. "It's a happy sacrifice. I want to be the best role model for my kids."
Gonzalez is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I'd like to thank YNCS Feliz Polanco, my mentor,” Gonzalez said. "I was originally undesignated. He helped me strike yeoman."
“I love serving in the Navy,” Gonzalez said. "It's never too late to be a part of something."