By Alvin Plexico, Navy Office of Community Outreach

NORFOLK, Va. - Petty Officer 3rd Class Ethan Hendrix, a native of Cypress, Texas, serves aboard a U.S. Navy warship operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.

Hendrix graduated in 2016 from Cy Ranch High School.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Cypress.

“My mom pushes me to see the positive side in everything and has reminded me to think that way every time we talk,” said Hendrix.

Hendrix joined the Navy five years ago. Today, Hendrix serves as a logistics specialist aboard USS Kearsarge.

“I joined the Navy to be part of something bigger than myself and to continue my education,” said Hendrix. "I'm working on my degree in supply chain management with Lonestar College."

Kearsarge’s crew is made up of approximately 1,200 crewmembers and can accommodate up to 1,800 Marines. Amphibious assault ships transfer Marines, equipment and supplies, and can support helicopters or other aircraft. Kearsarge is the third ship in the Wasp class of multipurpose amphibious assault ships and is the fourth Navy vessel to bear the name of Mount Kearsarge in New Hampshire.

Serving in the Navy means Hendrix is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.

“The Navy contributes to national defense by being a show of force,” said Hendrix. "We are present all around the world, which helps our allies feel safe."

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 trained sailors and a strong Navy.

Hendrix has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“I earned a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal during our deployment in 2023,” said Hendrix. "I led a pack-up team in Rota, Spain."

As Hendrix and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the U.S. Navy.

“Serving in the Navy was a chance to grow into a better person,” said Hendrix.

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

“I'd like to thank my mom, Lisha, and my dad, Creig, for supporting me in my desire to serve in the military,” added Hendrix. "I especially want to thank my wife, Lauren. I couldn't have done this without her.”