Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin Tang,
Navy Public Affairs Support Element West
SAN DIEGO – Chief Petty Officer (Select) Kashiro Aoyama, a native of Lexington Park, Maryland, serves aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex, currently operating out of San Diego, California.
Aoyama graduated from Great Mills High School in 2010 and earned a bachelor’s degree in public health from Purdue University in 2024.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Lexington Park.
“When I was working construction with my dad, which always gave me joy, I learned that regardless of what the job is, you stay humble, remember where you came from, and stay hungry,” Aoyama said.
Aoyama joined the Navy 14 years ago. Today, Aoyama serves as a hospital corpsman.
“I joined the Navy because I could not afford to pay for college, and enlisting gave me the option to have the Navy assist in financing my education,” Aoyama said.
Essex 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, Essex’s crew is made up of approximately 1,200 officers and enlisted personnel and can accommodate up to 1,800 Marines.
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
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.
Aoyama has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment comes from my sailors succeeding,” Aoyama said. “I wouldn’t have the success I’ve had if it weren’t for them. Seeing them win, overcome doubts, and achieve goals they thought they couldn’t is always rewarding.”
Aoyama serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Serving in the Navy has been one of my greatest blessings,” Aoyama said. “It’s given me opportunities to see the world while also being able to take care of my family in many ways.”
Aoyama is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my father, Jorge, may he rest in peace,” Aoyama added. “He was my biggest supporter and always wanted the best for me. The sacrifices he made to give me a better life, and the advice and guidance he imparted, I can never repay. I only hope that I am half the man he was. I also want to thank my wife, Morgan, who has been my rock and the greatest mother I could have for our two children.”
Congratulations Chief Selectee!