By JERRY JIMENEZ
Navy Specialist 1st Class YOKOSUKA, Japan — Manteca native Petty Officer 3rd Class Nicole Utemei, serves the U.S. Navy in Japan.
Utemei graduated from Sierra High School in 2020.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Manteca.
“I learned a lot from my hometown,” said Utemei. "I learned that it’s okay to be wrong. I also learned about time management and the importance of taking care of yourself."
Utemei joined the Navy four years ago. Today, Utemei serves as a hospital corpsman.
“I joined the Navy for the financial and educational opportunities that the Navy provides,” said Utemei.
Utemei serves in Japan as part of the Forward Deployed Naval Forces. These naval forces operate with allies and partners to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Service members in this region are part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, which has the largest area of responsibility in the world.
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.
“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.”
Utemei has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I am most proud of being selected for the special duty of being stationed on board USS Constitution,” said Utemei.
Utemei can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means a lot to me,” said Utemei. "I'm the first person in my family to join and that's a milestone."
Utemei is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my mom and sister,” added Utemei. "My mom supported my decision and my sister has been like my ‘rock.’”
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