By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Isaiah Sellers, Navy Office of Community Outreach
PEARL HARBOR – A Port Arthur, Texas, native and 2006 Memorial High School graduate is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the guided-missile cruiser, USS Port Royal.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Marco Martinez is a boatswain’s mate aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser operating out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

A Navy boatswain’s mate is responsible for taking care of small boats and ships, and refueling.

“I learned the important of taking advantage of any opportunity that is placed in front of me,” said Martinez.

Approximately 300 men and women serve aboard the ship. According to Navy officials, their jobs are highly specialized and keep each part of the cruiser running smoothly. They do everything from maintaining gas turbine engines and operating the highly sophisticated Aegis weapons system to driving the ship and operating small boats.

“Our sailors in Pearl Harbor are doing an excellent job at warfighting and supporting the warfighter,” said Cmdr. Hurd, chief staff officer, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. “Historically, Pearl Harbor is a symbolic base of sacrifice and resiliency. Today, on every Navy ship and shore facility’s flag pole, the First Navy Jack, ‘Don’t Tread on Me,’ flies reminding sailors to move forward and build on the history and legacy of this country and the U.S. Navy.”

A Navy cruiser is a multi-mission ship that can operate independently or as part of a larger group of ships at sea Navy officials explained. The ship is equipped with a vertical launching system, tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns and a phalanx close-in weapons systems.

Serving aboard USS Port Royal is a continuing tradition of military service for Martinez, who has military ties with family members who have previously served. Martinez is honored to carry on that family tradition.

“I am the first in my generation to be in the military,” said Martinez. “I feel as if I am on an adventure.”

Challenging living conditions build strong fellowship among the crew. The crew is motivated, and can quickly adapt to changing conditions. It is a busy life of specialized work, watches, and drills. Serving aboard a guided-missile cruiser instills accountability and toughness and fosters initiative and integrity.

As a member of one of the U.S. Navy’s most relied-upon assets, Martinez and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes providing the Navy the nation needs.

“Serving in the Navy means seeing the world and doing my part,” added Martinez.