A Miami native is serving in the U.S. Navy with the forward deployed unit, Naval Beach Unit 7. Petty Officer Third Class Jeremy Gould is an electrician’s mate operating forward in Sasebo, Japan.
A Navy electrician’s mate is responsible for the operation of a ship’s electrical power generation systems.
“I like fixing things and I love problem solving and helping out fellow electricians,” Gould said.
With more than 50 percent of the world’s shipping tonnage and a third of the world’s crude oil passing through the region, the U.S. has historic and enduring interests in this part of the world.
Commissioned in August 2012, Naval Beach Unit 7 was formed to combine the three forward deployed naval forces detachments in Japan.
The unit functions as the forward deployed naval force responsible for manning, organizing, training, maintaining and equipping all naval beach assets.
“Our alliance is rooted in shared interests and shared values,” said Adm. Harry Harris, U.S. Pacific Command Commander. “It’s not hyperbole to say that the entire world has benefited from the U.S.-Japan alliance. While our alliance helped stabilize the region after the Second World War, it also enabled the Japanese people to bring about an era of unprecedented economic growth. And for the last six decades, our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen have worked side by side with the Japan Self Defense Force to protect and advance peace and freedom.”
The Navy’s presence in Sasebo is part of a long-standing commitment to the region.
“The best part about this command is the deployments to Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Okinawa,” Gould said.
Sailors serving abroad in Japan are highly motivated and quickly adapt to changing conditions.
“Serving in the Navy means to grow stronger and be there for everyone you can be there for,” Gould said.
“The U.S.-Japan alliance remains the cornerstone for peace and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region,” Adm. Harris said.
