The below is an excerpt from a full publication from American Connections Media Outreach.
Most Americans rely on weather forecasts to plan their daily routine. The U.S. Navy is no different. With numerous ships, submarines and airplanes deployed in the U.S. Pacific Fleet’s area of operations, sailors stationed at Fleet Weather Center San Diego, make it their primary mission to monitor weather conditions in support of the fleet’s daily operations.
Airman Zachary Ogunfolu, a 2010 Rockville High School graduate and native of Silver Spring, Maryland, is one of these sailors serving at the Fleet Weather Center, providing full-spectrum weather services to shore-based commands and afloat naval units.
As a Navy aerographer's mate, Ogunfolu is responsible for providing weather support to pilots of naval aircraft to create flight routes.
Ogunfolu credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned in Silver Spring.
“I played basketball in high school and college,” said Ogunfolu. “A lot of the work ethic, discipline, and teamwork has helped me in the Navy.”
Additionally, sailors serving with the Fleet Weather Center ensure naval installations, contingency exercises and operations are able to facilitate risk management, resource protection and mission success of fleet, regional and individual unit commanders.
“Coming from the east coast, this has been a change of scenery,” said Ogunfolu. “Everyone at this command is friendly, and I have learned a lot. I wanted to further my education after a year at college. My sister knew that the Navy had a lot of opportunities for me, so I went to a recruiter and made the choice to join.”
Read more here.
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Arthurgwain Marquez