Aviators in the U.S. Navy fly some of the most technologically advanced aircraft in modern history.

The driving force behind keeping naval aviators safely in the air are the maintainers on the ground making repairs and ensuring the aircraft are mission-ready. 

Petty Officer 2nd Class Joseph Marroquin, a native of Coeur d’Alene, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Fleet Readiness Center Northwest aboard Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Washington.

Marroquin graduated from Lake City High School in 2018.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Coeur d’Alene.

“Growing up, I learned to be good or be good at it,” said Marroquin. “Also, if there is a will there’s a way to get things done.”

Marroquin joined the Navy six years ago. Today, Marroquin serves as a machinery repairman.

“I joined the Navy to expand my knowledge and to help out my family,” said Marroquin.

The Fleet Readiness Center Northwest is the premier intermediate maintenance activity of the Pacific Northwest. With more than 1,000 sailors, civilian and contractor personnel, the center provides intermediate and sophisticated depot-level repair of more than 12,500 different aviation components. Repair services are provided for jet engines, airframes, avionics, armament, aviation life support systems, ejection seats and more than 2,300 pieces of support equipment directly supporting 22 local and deployed squadrons, 10 aircraft carriers, three overseas operational sites and numerous Pacific Northwest Regional commands and activities.

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 how the prosperity of the United States is linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across America.

“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”

Marroquin has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My greatest accomplishment in the Navy is that I am able to set a great example to my two younger brothers and help one of my brothers join the Navy,” said Marroquin.

Marroquin can take pride in serving America through military service.

“Serving in the Navy means a lot to me,” said Marroquin.

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Alvin Plexico is the national director of the Navy Office of Community Outreach.