GULFPORT, Miss. — Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandon Zelenik, a native of Jackson, Tennessee, serves in the U.S. Navy assigned to Gulfport, Mississippi, home to the Atlantic Fleet Seabees.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Hunter Harwell, Navy Office of Community Outreach |
Zelenik graduated from Penn Foster High School in 2022.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Jackson.
“Growing up in Jackson shaped me into who I am today,” Zelenik said. “It is where I learned the value of hard work, respect and taking care of family. My parents still live in Jackson, and they have always supported me in chasing my goals.”
Zelenik joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Zelenik serves as a builder.
“I joined to support my family and to make a difference and to show people that positivity can get you far,” Zelenik said.
Navy Seabees, formally known as naval construction forces, provide a wide range of construction in support of operating forces, including roads, bridges, bunkers, airfields and logistics bases. Additionally, they provide responsive support for disaster recovery operations, perform civic action projects to improve relations with other nations, and provide anti-terrorism and force protection for personnel and construction projects.
Whether serving in the construction force or in a supporting role, the sailors in Gulfport personify the “Can Do” attitude of Seabees and are ready to serve and support warfighters globally.
Zelenik has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I am proud to be a Seabee, because we build what others rely on,” Zelenik said. “We are ready to fight and ready to build anytime and anywhere.”
Zelenik 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 to protect and serve others,” Zelenik said.
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.
Zelenik is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my mom, Sarah, and my dad, Seth, for always being there and giving me the love and support I need to succeed,” Zelenik said.
Zelenik is ready for the next stage of his career.
“I am looking forward to doing my expeditionary combat school,” Zelenik said. “I look forward to going back to my school.”