Saint Clair native, Mascoutah High graduate trains U.S. Navy Future Warfighters
By JERRY JIMENEZ
Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class
Navy Office of Community Outreach
Sailors are some of the most highly-trained people on the planet, according to Navy officials, and this training requires highly-dedicated instructors.
At Naval Education and Training Command (NETC), this obligation falls upon hard-charging Navy professionals who train and mentor the Navy’s future warfighters.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Jessamae Pinto, a native of Saint Clair, Ill., plays an important role as an instructor at NETC, providing the fleet with sailors who possess the basic technical knowledge and skills necessary for naval service. Instructors are experts in the subject matter they teach, and they provide cutting-edge technical training that transforms civilians into mission-ready sailors. “I enjoy motivating sailors and helping them keep that drive of motivation throughout their career,” said Pinto.
Pinto, a 2012 Mascoutah High School graduate, joined the Navy six years ago. “I joined the Navy to continue a family tradition,” said Pinto.
According to Pinto, the values required to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Saint Clair. “My parents always taught me to treat people how you want to be treated, with respect and kindness,” said Pinto.
NETC educates and trains those who serve, providing the tools and opportunities which enable lifelong learning, professional and personal growth and development, ensuring fleet readiness and mission accomplishment. Made up of six commands, NETC provides a continuum of professional education and training in support of Surface Navy requirements that prepare enlisted sailors and officers to serve at sea, providing apprentice and specialized skills training to 7,500 sailors a year.
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 a strong and ready Navy.
According to Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday, four priorities will focus efforts on sailors, readiness, capabilities, and capacity. “For 245 years, in both calm and rough waters, our Navy has stood the watch to protect the homeland, preserve freedom of the seas, and defend our way of life,” said Gilday. “The decisions and investments we make this decade will set the maritime balance of power for the rest of this century. We can accept nothing less than success.”
Serving in the Navy means Pinto 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 maintains peace and helps countries in need,” said Pinto.
Pinto and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service. “I’m proud to advance in rank and to achieve qualifications along the way,” said Pinto. “It keeps me motivated and patient to keep going.”
As Pinto and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy. “It’s a rewarding experience when you put on the uniform,” added Pinto. “You feel proud and dedicated to serving the finest country.”
