A son of Galveston, Texas, resident serves the U.S. Navy aboard USS Forrest Sherman.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Joseph Hykel joined the Navy four years ago.

“I joined the Navy to pursue a career that I love which is being a deckhand on a ship,” said Hykel. "What’s better than doing that while traveling and serving this wonderful country all at the same time."

Today, Hykel serves as a boatswain's mate.

“My favorite part about being a boatswain's mate is that I get to steer any type of warship that the Navy has to offer and assisting pilots landing helicopters on board by using visual aids and hand signals,” said Hykel.

Growing up in Texas City, Hykel graduated Texas City High School in 2018. Hykel uses the skills developed through past experiences in Texas City and those learned while serving to succeed in the military.

“What I took as a learning lesson from home is that there is so much more out in the world than just Texas or the United States,” said Hykel. “I get to visit some beautiful countries and meet people that I will call practically brothers and sisters. I am part of an elite organization that doesn't have a limit on career opportunities and career advancements. You can create your own path that impacts more than just yourself.”

USS Forrest Sherman was commissioned in 2006 and named after Admiral Forrest Sherman. Sherman was the commanding officer of the carrier USS Wasp during World War II.

Sherman was awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism after a Japanese submarine sank Wasp. He finished his career as the youngest man to ever become the Chief of Naval Operations.

Serving in the Navy means Hykel 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 because it doesn't have a boundary on where it can send its forces and support,” said Hykel. “Our presence alone sets the tone in the maritime industry and naval power that is unmatched. We stand side by side with NATO representing a force to be reckon with and a wall that can't be torn down.”

There are many opportunities for sailors, such as Hykel, to earn recognition in their command, community and careers while serving in the Navy.

“My proudest accomlishment was when I earning the rank of E5 in under four years,” said Hykel. “I worked hard for what I've achieved and I am blessed to have been surrounded by a chain of command that has acknowledged my work and time that have I put in.”

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Hykel, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.

“Serving to me brings me back to what I value the most, The Sailor's Creed which is to support and defend the constitution and I represent the fighting spirit of the Navy and those who've gone before me to defend freedom and democracy around the world,” added Hykel.