Litchfield Park graduate builds Navy career

Petty Officer 3rd Class Gabe Houston, a 2023 Canyon View High School graduate from Litchfield Park, is charting an early career in naval aviation as a helicopter aircrewman with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 21 in San Diego.

Houston said the work ethic he developed growing up in the West Valley has helped him adjust to the long hours and physical demands of Navy life. Before enlisting, he spent summers working outdoors in the Arizona heat, which he credits for teaching him persistence.

“Working at a physical labor job in the Arizona heat taught me how to overcome adversity,” Houston said. “When I am either cold, hot or tired, I will not fail my crewmates.”

Houston joined the Navy two years ago, shortly after high school. College didn’t feel like the right path, he said, and he wanted to start building a career.

“I joined the Navy because I knew I wasn’t going to college,” he said. “I wanted to get to work, while gaining good morals and habits.”

After completing training, Houston received orders to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 21, known as the Blackjacks. He said the assignment represents a personal milestone.

“My proudest accomplishment is getting orders to HSC 21,” Houston said. “It takes all of the accomplishments I have achieved in training and puts them together.”

As a naval aircrewman, Houston works on and flies in MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopters, supporting missions ranging from search and rescue to logistics and medical evacuations.

Houston said the Navy has helped him develop discipline and confidence as he continues to settle into his role.

“Serving in the Navy has given me a sense of discipline and a reason to carry myself in a higher manner,” he said.

He also credits his family in Litchfield Park for supporting him as he navigates life away from home.

“I want to thank my parents, Todd and Jessica, for supporting me when I needed it the most,” he said.