St. Thomas Native Excels in U.S. Navy; Plans Return to Give Back

Senior Chief Petty Officer Asiem McBean, from St. Thomas, serves in the U.S. Navy and is assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, which operates the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet, nicknamed the Rhino.

McBean, who joined the Navy 24 years ago, believes the skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in St. Thomas, according to a press release.

“Growing up, I learned to always work hard, no matter the limits or limitations put on you,” said McBean. “Some people see something is hard and they give up on it. I punch through and try all I can to get it done.”

“I was recruited by the Navy to be on their track team,” said McBean. “I picked up rank quickly so I gave up the track team and decided to become an aviation machinist’s mate.”