“I joined the Navy because the majority of my family has a history of serving in the military,” said Deguerre. “I was also looking for a career and to make some money. I am the first in my family to join the Navy.”
Growing up in North Bellmore, Deguerre attended Sanford H. Calhoun and graduated in 2018. Today, Deguerre relies upon skills and values similar to those found in North Bellmore to succeed in the military.
“I think because I am Haitian, my household had discipline and rules, and we all did chores,” said Deguerre. “Due to that, I never had to struggle to wake up or do hard work. I grew up that way. My family and community also taught me to listen to others and be aware of their needs.”
These lessons have helped Deguerre while serving in the Navy.
The CMV-22B is the Navy’s version of the U.S. Marines’ V-22 Osprey. It is designed to replace the C-2A Greyhound, which has provided logistical support to aircraft carriers for four decades.
CMV-22Bs are vertical takeoff and landing tilt-rotor aircraft, which have an increased operational range, faster cargo loading/unloading, increased survivability and enhanced communications compared to the C-2A Greyhound.
According to Navy officials, the mission of the CMV-22B is to provide timely, persistent air logistics for sustained carrier strike group lethality, anywhere in the world.
Serving in the Navy means Deguerre is part of a world that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“I remember going to the 9/11 Memorial as a student in New York City, and thinking about the tragedy that happened there in 2001,” said Deguerre. “The Navy provides security for our nation against future attacks.”
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to ready sailors and a strong Navy.
“Maintaining the world’s best Navy is an investment in the security and prosperity of the United States, as well as the stability of our world,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “The U.S. Navy—forward deployed and integrated with all elements of national power—deters conflict, strengthens our alliances and partnerships, and guarantees free and open access to the world’s oceans. As the United States responds to the security environment through integrated deterrence, our Navy must continue to deploy forward and campaign with a ready, capable, combat-credible fleet.”
“The Surface Force will continue to meet the challenge of strategic competition and respond to the realities of the modern security environment,” said Vice Adm. Roy Kitchener, commander of naval surface forces. “Our efforts are critical to preserve freedom of the seas, deter aggression and win wars.”
Deguerre and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.
“I am most proud of my contributions with the Diversity Committee and how we highlight different cultures,” said Deguerre. “We learn about each other’s stories, and most importantly, sample the many great foods.”
As Deguerre and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“The Navy means having a solid career,” added Deguerre. “I am planning to incorporate my college studies in psychology and criminal justice into my Navy career, so I can help other sailors in the future.”
By Capt. David Russell, Navy Office of Community Outreach
