To succeed in the navy, Petty Officer 3rd Class Shaun Rodgers, a native of Navasota, uses previous experience. Rodgers says he uses what he learned while growing up in Navasota every day.
“I’ve always done farm work, so I’ve always known how to work hard and follow directions. My dad worked in the garage a lot. I would help him out with things and learn how to be mechanically inclined. It has helped me out a lot and it has gotten me far.”
Three years ago, Rodgers chose to serve the U.S. Navy assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 49. Rodgers now serves as an aviation machinist’s mate. Members of HSM 49 are responsible for flying and maintaining helicopters – though the specific helicopters Rodgers works with are nothing short of extraordinary. The MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter is the Navy’s most advanced rotary wing maritime strike platform. The Navy MH-60R is versatile; common operations include strikes on marine targets, submarine hunting and attack, electronic warfare, search and rescue, medical evacuations, and supply support.
90% of global commerce travels by sea; the work HSM 49 does is paramount. Access to the internet relies on the security of undersea fiber optic cables. The prosperity and safety of the United States is intertwined with the recruiting and retaining of talented people like Rodgers.
Rodgers has several opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is getting my collateral duty inspector qualification.” Said Rodgers. “That’s the highest qualification a petty officer third class can get. I’m proud to teach other junior sailors about what we do and the qualifications we can get. Seeing them accomplish so much makes me proud.”
Rodgers is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible, saying,
“I would like to thank Petty Officer 2nd Class Ian Liske for helping me learn what I need to learn. He gives me all the tips and tricks to be a mechanic. I also want to thank Petty Officer 1st Class John Paul Delarosa. I wouldn’t be a petty officer third class if not for him. I’m also thankful for Petty Officer 2nd Class Brittni Ogrodnick, for teaching me a lot of things and being my mentor. I owe it to her to be a good collateral duty inspector and good petty officer third class overall.”