Albuquerque native keeps naval aviators flying in Florida

Petty Officer 3rd Class Analeeza Barela, a native of Albuquerque, New Mexico, is one of the sailors keeping naval aviators ready for takeoff while serving at Fleet Readiness Center (FRC) Southeast Detachment, Mayport, Florida.

Barela graduated from West Mesa High School in 2023. Additionally, Barela is pursuing an associate degree in health and science from U.S. Naval Community College and is expected to graduate next year.

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

“Growing up, I always saw my dad working in the garage as a mechanic on old cars while listening to Metallica and AC/DC,” Barela said. “I strove to be just like him.”

Barela joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Barela serves as an aviation support equipment technician.

“I joined the Navy for the benefits,” Barela said. “I didn’t have money for college, and I wanted to take advantage of the free healthcare and financial stability to own a house.”

FRC Southeast is Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia’s largest maintenance, repair, overhaul and technical services provider. Employing approximately 5,000 workers, FRC Southeast maintains, repairs and delivers aircraft, engines and aeronautical components to the fleet. Sailors serving at FRC Southeast Detachment Mayport maintain the engines and components of the MH-60 Seahawk helicopter and perform limited work supporting the MQ-4C Triton unmanned aerial vehicle. These aircraft support maritime patrol, reconnaissance and anti-submarine missions and are a critical part of maintaining the combat airpower for America’s military forces.

“The meticulous repair work our sailors perform on these aircraft and components is exactly what keeps our Navy flying and our nation secure,” said Capt. Mike Windom, commanding officer of FRC Southeast. “Every piece of gear that leaves our facility is a promise to the warfighter that they have the equipment needed to execute their mission and come home safely.”

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.

Barela has had many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“I am proud of getting my ‘Wings’ and being pinned as a petty officer third class the same day” Barela said. “It’s kind of rare for an E-3 to get their ‘Wings,’ but I finished all the requirements and was able to get them the same day I was frocked. It was a long process, and I was proud that I was able to achieve two big goals in the same day.”

Barela serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

“Serving in the Navy has brought me a lot of success, growth and has given me independence,” Barela said. “I’ve grown so much in life because of my time in the Navy.”

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

“I want to thank my family for believing in me, and my coworkers for helping me get to where I am,” Barela added. “I want to thank God as well for all the opportunities he has given me.”

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. For more information, visit: https://www.navy.mil/navy-250/