Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Klineizquierdo Mark Milliman

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – The U.S. Navy owns many large submarines, ships and aircraft carriers that need to be protected when operating at sea and close to the shore. A special group of sailors is charged with protecting these Navy investments.

The Maritime Expeditionary Security Force (MESF) operates ashore, at sea and in the waters of harbors, rivers, bays and across the littorals. The primary focus of MESF is to conduct maritime security operations. They do this by providing port and harbor security as well as security for high-value units, like aircraft carriers and submarines, on coastal waterways and ashore.

Constructionman apprentice Mark Milliman, a native of Dunkirk, New York, is one of these sailors serving at Maritime Security Squadron 2 which is responsible for protecting the Navy’s maritime platforms and port infrastructure.

Milliman graduated from Dunkirk High School in 2020.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Dunkirk.

“I’ve learned from growing up that there’s a whole lot in the world that can be explored, even if it requires leaving your family and friends in your hometown,” said Milliman.

Milliman joined the Navy one year ago.

“I joined because I was looking for opportunities to grow, and the Navy has many opportunities to learn skills,” said Milliman.

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.

Milliman serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

“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.”

Milliman has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“I’m proud that I can do my own diagnostics on a piece of equipment to find out what’s wrong so that it can be repaired,” said Milliman.

Milliman can take pride in serving America through military service.

“I’m grateful to play my part in keeping everything mission-ready,” said Milliman.

Milliman is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I’d like to thank my dad and mom, Mark Sr. and Kerry, for the support they’ve given me,” added Milliman. “They’ve helped me get through many challenges in life and in the Navy.”