NORFOLK, Va. – Petty Officer 2nd Class Neal Eichler, a native of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, serves aboard a U.S. Navy warship operating out of Norfolk, Virginia.

Eichler graduated in 2016 from Hopewell High School.

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

“I learned from my father and grandfather the importance of a strong work ethic,” said Eichler. “Being able to learn from my whole family and having a strong support system back home are the biggest factors to me being able to keep a level head and a strong mind when it comes to stress and happiness in life.”

Eichler joined the Navy seven years ago. Today, Eichler serves as an aircrew survival equipmentman aboard USS Kearsarge.

“I joined the Navy because I didn’t have much direction after high school,” said Eichler. “I wasn’t sure about college or any specific trade.”

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 Eichler 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 supports national defense by continually showing support and presence in peacetime, offering a visible force around the world,” said Eichler.

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.

Eichler has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My proudest Navy accomplishment is learning from hard situations and coming out a better person, leader and sailor,” said Eichler.

As Eichler 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 helps me understand other people and continue to look out for those I lead,” said Eichler.