Face of Defense: Delivering Smiles From Souda Bay

Why did you join the Navy?

I joined the Navy to start a new career and see the world. My first command was the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) out of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. Then I came here, so island to island. You could say I really enjoy the island life.

What do you do at NSA Souda Bay?

My job is to process regular mail and registered mail and provide great customer service. We also support the ships that come in. My job is to get the mail that comes in, sort it and bring it to the ship. Coming from a ship myself, I know how it feels to be waiting for packages and how long it can take for people to receive items they want or need. It makes me feel good to be on the opposite end and to be able to get our sailors the packages they have been waiting for.

What role does your department play for NSA Souda Bay?

My job is equally as important for the people stationed on NSA Souda Bay because everyone needs mail. No matter who you are, especially living the island life, we all need mail. It feels good to contribute to people's happiness when they get their packages and see the smiles on people's faces when they get a package, they have been waiting a long time for.

It also helps with morale. If someone is having a bad day, everything changes when they have a package come in. After they pick it up, they go back to work feeling happy, which in turn contributes to their team. They can work better alongside their teammates to complete the mission with that good attitude.

What is your favorite thing about the work you do at NSA Souda Bay?

My favorite thing is customer service. I love talking with customers. I have always been a people person, so just interacting with customers makes me happy.

What has been a career highlight here?

Recently, I was nominated for Sailor of the Quarter and got to go to the board for it. Just being nominated was a real honor for me, and it made me feel as though my command really saw and took note of the work I have been doing. That was a great moment for me.

What are your long-term career goals?

Currently I am working on my Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. My overall goal is to get my degree and stay in the Navy for 20 years. After that, when I retire from the Navy, I want to start working for the Naval Criminal Investigative Service or NCIS.

When not at work, how do you spend your free time?

I like going to the beach, going out to eat and spending time with friends. I also like making music. I rap and send the recording to my friend back in Hawaii to mix it together. On the Navy side, I am the Multicultural Committee Treasurer. I enjoy learning about different cultures and displaying it via PowerPoint for people in the command.

What is something you enjoy about living in Greece?

The coffee in Greece is the best. I love the way they make mocha cappuccinos. Also, I have been learning some Greek from the local nationals that work with me, so that is pretty cool.

What would you like Team Souda to know about your work?

I just want everyone to know I am a hard worker and am always here at the Post Office to lend a hand.