By Alvin Plexico
Four years ago, Petty Officer 3rd Class Bryan Reynoso joined the Navy because he wanted to defend his nation. Today, Reynoso is serving aboard USS Boxer, stationed in San Diego.
Reynoso is an aviation ordnanceman responsible for assembling and disassembling bombs, missiles and issuing ammunition to various units aboard the ship.
“I like being exposed to equipment that I could never imagine using, especially since these are the weapons used on the battlefield,” said Reynoso. “I also like the teamwork we have to complete the mission.”
Reynoso is a 2015 Century High School graduate and native of Anaheim.
According to Reynoso, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Anaheim.
“Growing up I learned to volunteer for tasks when given the choice, and in the Navy I’ve volunteered for many opportunities such as helping other ships with their ammunition onloads,” said Reynoso.
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
Boxer is an amphibious assault ship that has recently returned from a Western Pacific-Indian Ocean-Persian Gulf deployment. It is the sixth ship to carry the name Boxer.
Amphibious assault ships are used to transfer Marines, equipment and supplies and can support helicopters or other aircraft. They also are capable of accessing 75% of the world’s beaches.
According to Admiral Mike Gilday, the Chief of Naval Operations, the focus of today’s Navy is squarely on war fighting, warfighters and the capabilities needed for the Navy of the future.
“I am confident we will maximize the Navy we have today while delivering the Navy that our nation will rely upon tomorrow,” said Gilday. “And we will do so with urgency. Our fleet will be a potent, formidable force that competes around the world every day, deterring those who could challenge us while reassuring our allies and partners.”
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers. Reynoso is most proud of receiving letters of appreciation from the commanding officers of the two ships where he volunteered.
“We loaded ammunition aboard USS Essex and USS America,” said Reynoso.
For Reynoso, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Reynoso hopes to continue.
“My cousin is a chief petty officer in the Navy and serves aboard submarines,” said Reynoso. “My cousin definitely helped influence my decision to join, so I’m grateful for how he answered the questions I had and the guidance he provided.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Reynoso, as well as other sailors, know they are part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“I’m honored to be part of something bigger than myself, knowing that I’m protecting my country and those at home,” said Reynoso.
