PENSACOLA, FL.-A West Richland native is currently serving at Aviation Enlisted Aircrew Training School.
Airman Isaiah Zavaleta, a 2019 Hanford High graduate, joined the Navy in 2022.
“I have friends and family who have served,” said Zavaleta. “I joined the Navy because I wanted to do my part to help people around the world.”
Aviation Enlisted Aircrew Training School provides training to enlisted aircrew and rescue swimmer candidates, including instruction on topics such as aircrew duties and assignments, survival, first aid and water rescue procedures, according to the Navy Office of Community Outreach.
According to Zavala, the skills essential for success in the Navy are rooted in West Richland.
“Growing up, I always learned to give every task your best effort,” Zavaleta said. “My dad always taught me if you were going to do something to give it your best and always show up with a good positive attitude and outlook.”
Aviation Enlisted Aircrew Training School graduates from the Navy are ultimately assigned to fleet squadrons as Naval Aircrewmen.