Odessa native serves aboard Navy warship in Norfolk
Oct. 19—NORFOLK, Va. — Petty Officer 3rd Class Pedro Hernandez, a native of Odessa, serves aboard a U.S. Navy warship operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.
Hernandez graduated in 2016 from Permian High School.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Odessa.
"I learned that the Navy is a lot bigger than your hometown," said Hernandez. "The vastness and diversity has helped me grow as a person."
Hernandez joined the Navy six years ago. Today, Hernandez serves as a hospital corpsman aboard USS Ross.
"I joined the Navy to give back to the community," said Hernandez. "Some people give back through volunteering, or community service. I give back through military service."
Ross, a guided-missile destroyer, provides a wide range of warfighting capabilities in multi-threat air, surface and subsurface environments.
A destroyer is a multi-mission ship that can operate independently or as part of a larger group of ships at sea. The ship is equipped with tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns and a phalanx close-in weapons system.
More than 300 sailors serve aboard Ross. Their jobs are highly specialized, requiring both dedication and skill. Their jobs range from maintaining engines to handling weaponry, alongside a multitude of other assignments that keep the ship mission-ready at all times, according to Navy officials.
Serving in the Navy means Hernandez is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America's focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
"The Navy's rapid response to crisis, natural disasters and conflicts allow us to provide assistance around the globe at a moment's notice," said Hernandez. "These capabilities help show our strength."
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 trained sailors and a strong Navy.
Hernandez has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
"I'm proud to serve alongside the best in the Navy," said Hernandez. "That brings me great joy and satisfaction."
As Hernandez and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the U.S. Navy.
"Serving in the Navy has allowed me to practice medicine in a way like no other," said Hernandez. "I'm grateful for the experiences I've had in the Navy, and I'm hopeful that my service helps keep us free."
