Petty Officer 2nd Class Domenic Velona, a native of La Crescenta, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to the Sea Knights of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 22, onboard Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia.

Velona graduated from Crescenta Valley High School in 2020. 

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

“Growing up, I prioritized my work, which built my strong work ethic,” Velona said. “I bring that forward every day in the Navy. It’s developed me into a better leader, strengthening my peers and juniors in their efforts as they strive to reach their goals, helping them reach their goals every day.”

Velona joined the Navy five years ago. Today, he serves as an aviation electronics technician.

“With my graduating year being during the COVID pandemic and not being able to afford school financially, I decided to follow my family’s footsteps in the military and serve,” Velona said. “My dad served in the Marines, my brother was in the Army, and my uncle and grandpa were in the Navy. I wanted to do something with aviation but I didn’t want to join the Air Force, so the Navy seemed like the way to go.”

The Sea Knights of HSC-22 fly and maintain the MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, the Navy’s versatile and most advanced rotary wing maritime platform. Their missions include airborne mine countermeasures, combat search and rescue, anti-surface warfare, combat logistics and medevac.

Velona has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service. 

“I am proud of guiding and teaching my junior sailors both in a military aspect as well as in their personal development,” Velona said. “It brings me joy to see others succeed in every aspect and just do better the next day.”

This year, the Navy is commemorating its contribution to the nation’s defense as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. According to Navy officials, for more than 250 years the Navy has sailed the globe defending freedom and protecting prosperity. 

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 the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

“Serving in the Navy allows me to be part of a family and team, working together to accomplish a mission or goal and be part of the bigger picture,” Velona said.

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

“I would like to thank my friends and family for their never-ending support,” Velona said.

By Ashley Craig, Navy Office of Community Outreach