Senior Chief Petty Officer Zach Langlois, a native of Ontario, Oregon, is one of the sailors ensuring the U.S. Navy maintains freedom from the ocean to the stars at Navy Meteorology and Oceanography Command (METOC).

Langlois currently serves as an aerographer’s mate at METOC, headquartered at the Stennis Space Center in Mississippi.

Langlois graduated from Ontario High School in 2002.

Langlois joined the Navy 15 years ago.

“My grandfather also served in the Navy,” said Langlois. “I initially joined for stability for my family.”

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

“Ontario is a town that when opportunities come up, you have to make the most of them,” said Langlois. “I apply that philosophy to my Navy career. It’s helped me advance.”

According to Navy officials, sailors and civilians working throughout Naval Oceanography collect, measure, and analyze the elements of the physical environment (land, sea, air, space). They synthesize a vast array of oceanographic and meteorological data to produce forecasts and warnings in support of safety of flight and navigation.

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.

Langlois 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.”

Langlois has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“I’m most proud of watching all of the junior sailors that I’ve worked with advance to chief or be selected for officer,” said Langlois. “Seeing growth and accomplishment in those you’ve helped develop and mentor, there isn’t a feeling that can match it. It shows that what you’re doing and what you’re putting into it is paying off.”

Langlois can take pride in serving America through military service.

“To me serving in the Navy means that I’m part of something that helps protect our country and helps preserve our way of life,” said Langlois.

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

“There’s a core group of friends that I graduated high school with that I still keep in touch with daily,” said Langlois. “Having their friendship has helped me stay in. They’re very supportive and very encouraging.”

Langlois said the decision to join the Navy was the right one.

“Joining the Navy was meant to be a temporary bridge to my next career but it turned out to be my career instead,” added Langlois. “It was a great decision. It turned out to be something that I love to do and I’m proud to come to work every day.”