MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Eric Phimpasouk, a native of Perris, California, recently advanced in rank to petty officer first class while serving with the U.S. Navy in South Korea.
“After working on a ship for five years, I learned a lot from the people I looked up to and the ones I didn’t look up to,” said Phimpasouk. “My work and hardships were recognized, and at the same time, have gone unseen by those people alike. After being promoted to this rank, I’ve learned who I wanted to be and who I didn’t want to be, and I am proud of myself for how far I have come.”
Phimpasouk graduated from Heritage High School in 2019.
Phimpasouk joined the Navy six years ago. Today, Phimpasouk serves as a fire controlman at Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea (CNFK).
The mission of CNFK is to provide leadership and expertise in naval matters to the Republic of Korea by improving institutional and operational effectiveness between the two navies, strengthening the collective security efforts in Korea and the region.
This year, the Navy is commemorating its contribution to the nation’s defense as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence.
According to Navy officials, for more than 250 years, the Navy has sailed the globe defending freedom and protecting prosperity.
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.
As Phimpasouk and other sailors continue to perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the U.S. Navy and protecting the American way of life.
More information is available here: https://www.navy.mil/navy-250/.