Lewes native serves with U.S. Navy patrol squadron

Petty Officer 2nd Class Sydney Messick, a Lewes native and a 2022 graduate of Cape Henlopen High School, serves in the U.S. Navy assigned to Patrol Squadron VP-16.

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

“I learned to persevere through hard times and that if you try hard enough, you can accomplish things you would never believe,” Messick said.

Messick joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Messick serves as a naval aircrewman (operator).

“I joined the Navy to experience a world outside of the comforts of my hometown,” Messick said.

Members of VP-16 fly and maintain the U.S. Navy’s P-8A Poseidon multi-mission maritime aircraft. Designed to secure the U.S. Navy’s future in long-range maritime patrol capability, the P-8A has transformed how the Navy’s maritime patrol and reconnaissance force will train, operate and deploy, according to Navy officials. P-8A aircraft deploy around the globe to monitor the world’s oceans wherever they are needed.

“I’m proud of each of our squadron teammates who support our mission of providing competent sailors and capable aircraft to deter in peace and win in war,” said Cmdr. Jake Weinzatl, VP-16 commanding officer. “These men and women respect each other and value one another’s contributions, winning as a team, not as individuals, and I’m honored to serve with them.”

The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.

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.

Messick has many opportunities to accomplish new things during her military service.

“My proudest accomplishment was during my first deployment, where we went to Isa, Bahrain and Japan, supporting the mission that protected U.S. forces, strengthened my mind, built confidence and will be looked back on as important in naval history,” Messick said.

Messick 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, though some days are more challenging than others, means that I actually have a reason to be proud,” Messick said. “Not only can I be looked up to as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, but I can also look back on the things I’ve done to serve my country with overwhelming pride.”

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

“I would like to thank my prior coworkers from Dogfish Head Brewings and Eats back home, who brought me in as a young hostess and showed me the value of family and support,” Messick said, “I’d also like to thank my sister, who has always been and will continue to be an inspiration to me.”