Houston native supports U.S. Navy Osprey squadron

Megan Brown, Navy Office of Community Outreach | 3/25/2024, 12:55 p.m.
etty Officer 1st Class Mercedes Payne, a native of Houston, Texas, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission …
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings, Navy Office of Community Outreach

By Megan Brown, Navy Office of Community Outreach

 Petty Officer 1st Class Mercedes Payne, a native of Houston, Texas, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 30. 

Payne graduated from the High School for Law and Justice in 2013.

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

“I learned in my hometown the importance of advocating for myself because nobody else will do it for me,” said Payne. “In the Navy, if you don’t advocate for yourself, you could be overlooked and your hard work could potentially go unnoticed.”

Payne joined the Navy more than 10 years ago. Today, Payne serves as a yeoman.

"My aunt is a chief in the Navy and she inspired me to join,” said Payne. “I also joined for the educational benefits and to travel. I enlisted during my senior year of high school.”

Members of VRM 30 fly and maintain the CMV-22B Osprey, a vertical takeoff and landing tilt-rotor aircraft. VRM aircraft have increased operational range, faster cargo loading and unloading, increased survivability and enhanced communications compared to the C-2A Greyhound.

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.

“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.”

Payne has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service. 

“I am most proud of being a model sailor and setting the standard for each rank I’ve had,” said Payne. “I was Blue Jacket of the Year aboard USS Bataan, Junior Sailor of the Year at Navy Munitions Command Atlantic, Sailor of the Year at Commanding Officer Mobile Mine Assembly Group and Senior Sailor of the Quarter at VRM 30.”

Payne 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 gives me purpose and shows me that what I am doing matters,” said Payne. “It makes me feel fulfilled and like I am a part of something bigger than myself.” 

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

“I want to thank my aunt, Chief Navy Counselor Perossier, for being a huge support system for me whenever I need advice in the Navy,” added Payne. “I also want to thank God because when I didn’t have anyone else, I had Him. Lastly, I want to thank my daughter, McKenzie, and my family for being supportive, especially when I’ve deployed.”


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