Scottsville native serves with U.S. Navy’s Maritime Expeditionary Security Force

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jerome Fjeld, Navy Office of Community Outreach
The U.S. Navy owns many large submarines, ships and aircraft carriers that need to be protected when operating at sea and close to the shore. A special group of sailors is charged with protecting these Navy investments.

Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Klineizquierdo

The Maritime Expeditionary Security Force (MESF) operates ashore, at sea and in the waters of harbors, rivers, bays and across the littorals. The primary focus of MESF is to conduct maritime security operations. They do this by providing port and harbor security as well as security for high-value units, like aircraft carriers and submarines, on coastal waterways and ashore.

Lt. Stewart Bova, a native of Scottsville, Virginia, is one of these sailors serving at Maritime Security Squadron 2, which is responsible for protecting the Navy’s maritime platforms and port infrastructure.

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

“My hometown taught me how to manage my time and relationships,” said Bova. “It also taught me how to be a leader.”

Bova graduated from Episcopal High School in 2011.

“I joined the Navy to serve alongside and support fellow sailors,” said Bova. “Additionally, I have an interest in American foreign policy and serving in the Navy allows me to directly participate in it.”

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.

Bova 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.”

Bova has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is being a part of the team that seized 328 tons of cocaine,” said Bova. “The seizure took an immense amount of teamwork and collaboration. It’s one step towards preventing harm in the country I love.”

Bova can take pride in serving America through military service.

“Serving in the Navy means long hours with a good return on investment,” said Bova. “In the Navy, you have to put in a lot of work but you get to see the results. There is a strong sense of purpose and gratification that comes with service.”

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

“I would like to thank my high school teachers, Tom Berry and Mason New,” added Bova. “They have always been a cherished source of support in my life. Going beyond my high school years, they even helped me prepare for Officer Candidate School.”