Virginia Beach native supports versatile missions while serving at U.S. Navy Helicopter Squadron

McKenzie joined the Navy nearly eight years ago. Today, McKenzie serves as an information systems technician.

“I joined the Navy because I wanted to see the world and I knew serving would offer that opportunity,” said McKenzie.

McKenzie attended Tallwood High School and graduated in 2015.

Skills and values similar to those found in Virginia Beach led to success in the military.

“I learned respect growing up which has helped in the Navy,” said McKenzie.

These lessons have helped McKenzie while serving with the Navy.

Members of HM 12 fly and maintain helicopters for the U.S. Navy. Navy helicopters are able to perform many different missions. In general, some of the most common operations include search and rescue, air assaults, medical evacuations, supply transport and hunting submarines.

This year commemorates 50 years of women flying in the U.S. Navy. In 1973, the first eight women began flight school in Pensacola; one year later six of them, known as “The First Six,” earned their “Wings of Gold.” Over the past 50 years, the Navy has expanded its roles for women to lead and serve globally and today our women aviators project power from the sea in every type of Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard aircraft. Our Nation and our Navy is stronger because of their service.

As a member of the Navy, McKenzie is part of a world-class organization focused on maintaining maritime dominance, strengthening partnerships, increasing competitive warfighting capabilities and sustaining combat-ready forces in support of the National Defense Strategy.

“The United States Navy has a strong presence at sea which deters adversaries and protects our country,” said McKenzie.

With 90 percent 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 trained sailors and a strong Navy.

“Our mission remains timeless – to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”

McKenzie and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.

“I am proud that the Nacyy gave me the opportunity to work hard, grow and bounce back from a mistake I made early on in my career,” said McKenzie.

As McKenzie and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

“The Navy has given me stability and job security in an unpredictable economy,” said McKenzie.

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

“I want to thank my mom who has been my biggest supporter,” added McKenzie. “I’m also grateful to my grandfather, who is a Navy veteran and inspired me to serve.”