Kent native Hawkins enjoying U.S. Navy career in San Diego

By Andrew Hanchar

Navy Office of Community Outreach

Petty Officer 2nd Class Logan Hawkins, a native of Kent, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 49 in San Diego.

Hawkins graduated from Kent-Meridian High School in 2013.

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

“Coming from a diverse background and being surrounded by different cultures and values helped shape me into the man I am today,” Hawkins said. “Having these experiences in my past has helped me in my career in the Navy, where I’m dealing and working with people from all different walks of life.”

Hawkins joined the Navy nine years ago. Today, Hawkins serves as a yeoman, who perform administrative and clerical work.

“I joined the Navy for more opportunities and make something of myself,” he said. “I wanted to see the world and experience what was out there.”

Members of HSM 49 fly and maintain the MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, the Navy’s most advanced rotary wing maritime strike platform. The Navy MH-60R is able to perform many different missions. Some of the most common operations include strikes on maritime targets, submarine hunting and attack, electronic warfare, search and rescue, medical evacuations and supply support.

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.

“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of Naval Operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”

Hawkins has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“I am most proud of constantly growing and learning as a person these last nine years,” Hawkins said. “Serving and climbing the ranks to petty officer second class has matured me and made me grow as a man.”

Hawkins serves a Navy that operates around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

“Serving in the Navy means supporting operations to protect the freedoms of everyday Americans,” Hawkins said. “The Navy is seen in a positive light across the globe and promotes peace and prosperity.”

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

“I would like to thank my family for their continued support,” he said. “My kids keep me going and make me the best father, sailor and man I can be.”

Hawkins has goals for the future as they continue to serve.

“I am excited to continue on my path of becoming a personal trainer,” said Hawkins. “The Navy has helped me immensely by providing courses, free of charge, for me to be happy and fulfilled outside of my working duties.”