Castillo graduated from Alvin High School in 2017.

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

“I learned to be respectful to everyone regardless of their background,” said Castillo. "Everyone has my respect until they lose it. I'm from a small town with a good deal of diversity."

Castillo joined the Navy six years ago. Today, Castillo serves as an engineman.

“I joined the Navy because I felt like it was a calling to save lives and have a purpose to my life,” said Castillo. "I didn't feel I would get that by going straight to college."

According to Navy officials, JEB Little Creek-Fort Story is the country’s premier installation for housing and training the nation’s expeditionary forces. It is one command with two properties: Joint Expeditionary Base Fort Story and JEB Little Creek. The JEB is comprised of the former Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek and the Army Post of Fort Story. Fort Story witnessed the humble beginnings of the nation at the 1607 first landing site. Little Creek began as a dynamic training ground for World War II amphibious forces.

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.

Castillo serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation's prosperity and security.

"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."

Castillo has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“I received a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for stopping a major fuel oil leak aboard my former ship off the coast of California,” said Castillo. "I noticed the leak, and with the help of my shipmates, we stopped the leak."

Castillo can take pride in serving America through military service.

“Serving in the Navy is an honor,” said Castillo. "I have a grandfather, Joseph, who was in the Navy. My stepfather, Christopher Griffith, served in the Army. Being here makes my family proud."

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

“I want to thank my stepfather, Christopher Griffith, and my mom, Tanya Griffith,” added Castillo. "They were the single biggest positive influence in my life growing up. I also want to send a shoutout to my little sister, Ashlyn. I continue to serve because I want to be a good role model for her."

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