“One of the school employees, Mr. Wright, motivated us and encouraged us to always find the path that was right for us to take,” Mini said. “That is an important lesson here because everyone’s path is different so it is important to stay true to yourself and stick to your own path.”
Mini joined the Navy five years ago. Today, Mini serves as a culinary specialist.
“I joined the Navy because I didn’t get any scholarships and I wanted a way to pay for college,” Mini said
Naval Base San Diego is the U.S. Navy’s largest base on the West Coast and is homeport to the Pacific Fleet Surface Navy with 56 U.S. Navy ships and two auxiliary vessels including USNS Mercy. The base is also home to more than 200 tenant commands, each having specific and specialized fleet support purposes.
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
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.
Mini has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I am proud of making rank because it makes me feel like I can go farther and that I can continue to advance in my career,” Mini said. “I am also proud of being a mom and being able to take care of my kids.”
Mini 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 I am doing something to protect my family and friends,” Mini said. “It also means I am paving a pathway for my future.”
Mini is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank God and my kids for giving me motivation to get up every day,” Mini added.
