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Petty Officer 2nd Class Nelson is part of a group of Americans who serve their country in uniform part time while also working full-time jobs outside the military.
Created in 1915, the Navy Reserve has played a major role in nearly every conflict the U.S. has been involved with during the past decade.
“My father was the same way, so I wanted to continue the tradition of service,” said Nelson.
Nelson’s current assignment is with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 27, based in Gulfport, Miss. Sailors attached to NMCB 27 and other similar units, nicknamed “Seabees,” specialize in building roads, bridges, airfields and other structures for the U.S. military in areas of conflict around the world.
“My favorite part of the job is the camaraderie,” said Nelson.
Nelson and the rest of NMCB 27 are part of the Navy’s construction force that has been around for more than 70 years. Seabees have built entire bases and bridges and bulldozed and paved thousands of miles of roadway and airstrips for the U.S. military all over the world, playing a vital role in every major conflict the U.S. has been involved with since World War II.
Nelson plays an essential role in the battalion as a construction mechanic, responsible for maintenance and upkeep of construction equipment.
“I perform preventive maintenance on vehicles and equipment. I also delegate responsibilities to junior troops,” said Nelson.
As a reservist, Nelson is continually balancing both the expectations of working as a sailor and as a civilian. Nelson said that he gained unique skills and experience on both sides and that he’s become a better-rounded person because of it.
“As a police officer, being in the reserve helps maintain military bearing, situational awareness and people skills,” said Nelson.
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