Petty Officer 1st Class Michael Norval, a native of Seward, serves aboard USS Essex, a U.S. Navy amphibious assault ship operating out of San Diego, California.
Norval graduated from Seward Senior High School in 2003.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Seward.
“I grew up in a small town,” Norval said. “We had phenomenal teachers who took the time to care for each individual student. They helped guide each of us along the path toward success and they all wanted to ensure we had the resources to succeed. Experiencing that has helped me lead junior sailors throughout their time in the Navy.”
Norval joined the Navy 18 years ago. Today, Norval serves as a master-at-arms.
“I joined the Navy to serve my country after the attacks on 9/11,” Norval said. “I attended college right after high school and, after starting a family, I wanted to find stability. I originally wanted to be a Navy SEAL but I eventually aspired to be a cop. The Navy provided the opportunity to receive the training required while also serving my country.”
Amphibious assault ships, such as USS Essex, project power and maintain presence by serving as the cornerstone of the Amphibious Readiness Group / Expeditionary Strike Group.
Resembling a small aircraft carrier, amphibious assault ships offer the Marine Corps with a means of ship-to-shore movement, provide humanitarian assistance and support major combat operations. More than 1,000 serve aboard USS Essex with an additional 1,200 Marines capable of being embarked.
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
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.
Norval has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I love what I do in the Navy,” Norval said. “My proudest accomplishment is where I am currently. The Essex is the best ship in the fleet and I am proud to be a part of it. I take pride in the relationships I made and the people I have helped along the way. Having the opportunity to guide sailors and watch them become future leaders in the Navy is the pinnacle of my career.”
Norval serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation's prosperity and security.
“I have always been drawn to serve in the Navy,” Norval said. “Before joining, I worked for the state but I always found a calling to service. The Navy provided the opportunity for me to develop professionally while experiencing more of the world than I could’ve imagined. I love everything that I do and it has been an amazing ride. I have created a lot of amazing memories and experiences. Serving is the best decision I have made in my life.”
Norval is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my family,” Norval said. “My wife has supported our family throughout my career and my kids have encouraged me every step of the way. Long deployments are difficult but I am always motivated knowing that I am ensuring my family’s safety and democracy. I am also grateful for all the sailors who I deployed with to Iraq and Afghanistan.
“Lastly, I want to thank Rear Adm. Ludwa for their mentorship and guidance, which allowed me to have a successful career. I wouldn't be where I am today without him.”
