Republication of article posted by American Connections Media Outreach at: https://navyoutreach.blogspot.com/2025/08/miami-springs-graduate-serves-with-us.html
By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Heidi Cheek, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MAYPORT, Fla. – Petty Officer 3rd Class Alison Barrantes, a 2010 Miami Springs Senior High School graduate, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Naval Station Mayport.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrew Hanchar |
Barrantes joined the Navy four years ago. Today, Barrantes serves as a boatswain’s mate.
“There are many reasons I decided to join the Navy; it opened up a path for my life,” Barrantes said. “I wanted to go to school, and it was a struggle to pay all the bills, and I knew I could get my education paid for in the military. The Navy was a way to get me on solid ground and feel more secure.”
Since its commissioning in 1942, Naval Station Mayport has grown to become the third largest fleet concentration area in the United States. Boasting both a large harbor and an 8,000-foot runway capable of handling any military aircraft in use, Naval Station Mayport is home to more than 80 commands, including 22 ships and three helicopter squadrons.
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
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.
Barrantes has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I have learned how to be bolder, more confident and how to stand up for myself,” Barrantes said. “I have seen changes in myself for the better. I have made a change in the environment of every command I have been to by leading with kindness and respect. People will be more productive and work harder if they are treated with respect.”
Barrantes serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Over the years, we have been first responders after natural disasters, and helping people is exactly what I wanted to do,” Barrantes said. “Protecting people and doing my part to serve is very fulfilling.”
Barrantes is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank the first person who really helped me adjust to life in the military, Boatwain’s Mate Abigail Asarei,” Barrantes said. “I especially want to thank my mother, Elvira Borge, for everything she has done raising three children. She is an amazing, strong woman.”
