Norfolk, Va. - Airman Apprentice Josue Henry, a native of Euless, Texas, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to USS Wasp, an amphibious assault ship operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.
Henry graduated from Trinity High School in 2020.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Euless.
“Growing up in my hometown taught me the importance of always trying my best, even when life throws you down,” Henry said. “It’s helped me in the Navy because even in hard times, when I make a mistake, I tell myself I’m going to get better and learn from my mistakes.”
Henry joined the Navy two years ago. Today, Henry serves as an aviation boatswain’s mate (handling).
“I joined the Navy to help my family, as well as to build a better foundation for my life,” Henry said. “I chose the Navy to help my mom become a citizen and to be a good role model for my siblings.”
Wasp plays a crucial role in projecting power and maintaining presence for naval forces. It serves as the cornerstone of amphibious operations, capable of carrying Marines, their equipment and aircraft to execute a wide range of missions, from humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to full-scale amphibious assaults.
This ship enables forces to rapidly deploy and sustain operations in littoral (near-shore) environments, providing a versatile platform for achieving strategic objectives across the globe. Resembling a small aircraft carrier, Wasp’s crew is made up of approximately 1,200 officers and enlisted personnel and can accommodate up to 1,800 Marines.
Henry has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I’m most proud of being able to call myself a sailor and being able to help other sailors achieve their goals,” Henry said. “I feel like a lot of people, even at boot camp, a lot of them wanted to be a sailor but weren’t able to do so. Now, I’m here on the ship being a sailor.”
This year, the Navy is commemorating its contribution to the nation’s defense as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. According to Navy officials, for more than 250 years, the Navy has sailed the globe defending freedom and protecting prosperity.
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.
“Serving in the Navy gives me pride because it gives me the chance to protect the people I love and care for,” Henry said.
Henry is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my mom for always being there for me and loving me,” Henry said. “I wouldn’t be here without her support.”
