STENNIS SPACE CENTER, Miss. – Lt. Keely Martin a native of Midland, Texas, 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).

Martin currently serves as the current operations officer for West Coast Lead, headquartered at the Stennis Space Center in Mississippi.

Martin graduated from Legacy High School formerly known as Robert E. Lee High in 2015.

Martin joined the Navy six years ago.

“I was giving the opportunity to attend the U.S. Naval Academy," said Martin. "Having the benefit of getting an education and a privilege to serve my country as a direct result."

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

“I am a first-generation American and my grandmother raised five kids on her own, as my grandfather passed away when my mom was young,” said Martin. "Seeing the opportunity that this country afforded to my family, it was important for me to give back. I have always been drawn to service starting with my community."

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.

Martin 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.”

Martin has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My proudest accomplishment is being trusted to act as the combined METOC officer for a major international exercise held in the Pacific,” said Martin. "I got to lead a team of around 30 sailors for full spectrum environmental effects for the exercise."

Martin can take pride in serving America through military service.

“Serving in the Navy means giving back to a country that has given so much to me and bettering myself to ultimately, help those around me,” said Martin.

Martin is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.“I would like to thank my husband, Kaleb Nelson, for his love and support,” added Martin.