BREMERTON, Wash. –
Veterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day, is an occasion to thank and honor all those who served honorably in the military — both the living and those who have passed — whether in wartime or peace. The day is largely intended to thank living veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated and to underscore the fact that all those who served have sacrificed and done their duty.
Approximately 26 percent of Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility’s workforce are veterans. From battlefields to battalions, skies to seas, each veteran carries knowledge and experiences that help shape their civilian work. For some, their work at PSNS & IMF is an extension of their service. For others, it's an opportunity to try a new career field while continuing their service to the nation.
This month, PSNS & IMF celebrates the outstanding work performed each day by its military veterans.
Rozy Castellanos, U.S. Navy, 24 years
Career Counselor, Command Career Center
“I come from a long line of veterans and wanted to join the Navy since the age of 12. By having first-hand knowledge and experience about aircraft carrier functions, along with knowing the upkeep and maintenance requirements, I understand the importance of being able to get the carriers and submarines, ready and out to the fleet at a moment’s notice. My prior service connects me to the mission because I am able to speak to both sides: the ship’s force perspective and the civilian perspective, along with my empathy that helps me connect to the mission.”
Leslie Churchill, U.S. Navy, 24 years
Marine Machinery Supervisor, Shop 38, Marine Machinist
“I joined the Navy because I had a strong desire to serve and to go to college. My great uncle, father, wife and son all served. This legacy is important to me and has helped instill a sense of pride in workmanship and ownership in every aspect of my work. My prior service helps me lead by example and demonstrate the importance of our shipyard’s work and what it represents. My prior service helps me connect to the mission by never giving up, even when things get tough. As a Seabee our motto is “Can Do.” Simply put we don’t give up till the mission is complete.”
Jim Cook, U.S. Navy, 23 years
Division Head, Code 1101, Executive Support Staff
“I left home at 15, struggled in my formative years, and needed structure and discipline. Military life provided the challenges I needed to find my moral compass, learn humility and achievement, and develop as a leader in ship and submarine maintenance and repair. Having developed through the roles of craftsman, manager, leader, ship superintendent, shipbuilding specialist, and ultimately into senior leadership positions in and out of the Navy, it has given me the competencies and contacts to work with teams and leaders at all levels of the Navy.”
Robin Lee, U.S. Marine Corps, 4 years
Graphic Designer, Code 1160, Public Affairs Office
“After high school, I was seeking opportunities and looking at colleges, and the Marine Corps was a great way to earn money for school and help me get started professionally. The teamwork that I learned in the Marine Corps has helped me in collaborating with my officemates, stakeholders and subject matter experts on high-level visual communication initiatives. The high standards of the Marine Corps have helped instill in me the value of accountability for the quality of products that I create. I connect to the mission by recognizing that every individual has value, both active-duty and civilians — everyone has a part to play.”
Paul Silivelio, U.S. Marine Corps, 14 years
Marine Machinery Supervisor, Shop 38, Marine Machinist
“My discipline and work ethic come from serving in the military. Working for the shipyard makes me realize that I was proud to serve my country and now I get to serve my country in a different way. I'm still very proud at what I do. I have also met a lot of good people here at the shipyard, people I can depend on, just like how I depended on my buddies in the Marines to have my back while deployed on the front lines. I connect to the mission because I bring my mentality of how to learn and trust the chain of command, and utilize that discipline to complete my work and be professionally success.”
Daniel Trout, U.S. Navy, 5 years
Mechanic, Shop 52, Regional Calibration
“I was motivated to join the armed forces because my grandfathers and other family members served in the military. Working on submarines as a civilian, I feel an attachment to fellow submariners. The Navy as a whole plays a huge part in the defense of this nation. My prior service connects me to the mission because the maintenance work we do allows each vessel to return to sea and come home safely. Sailors need to be able to trust that we do our job so that they can do theirs.”