Lt. j.g. Jacob Brodnick, a native of West Palm Beach, is serving aboard the USS Lassen, a U.S. Navy warship operating out of Mayport, Florida.
Brodnick graduated from the King’s Academy in 2017. He also earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 2021.
“Growing up, I learned the importance of servant leadership and humility,” Brodnick said. “In the Navy, you get a lot more done when people know you care about them and not just yourself.”
Brodnick joined the Navy three years ago. Today, he serves as a surface warfare officer.
“I grew up studying U.S. military history, and I joined the military to emulate the heroism of the sailors who came before me,” Brodnick said.
A Navy destroyer is a multi-mission ship that can operate independently or as part of a larger group of ships at sea. The ship is equipped with tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns and a phalanx close-in weapons system.
More than 300 sailors serve aboard Lassen. Their jobs are highly specialized, requiring both dedication and skill. The jobs range from maintaining engines to handling weaponry, along with a multitude of other assignments that keep the ship mission-ready at all times, according to Navy officials.
Brodnick has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I always felt the proudest after successful gunshots or ammo on-loads because my sailors had what they needed to demonstrate their expertise,” Brodnick said.
Brodnick 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 means I am able to contribute in a small way to maintaining freedom and democracy for our nation,” Brodnick said.
Brodnick is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“First and foremost, I want to thank my wife for being the absolute best,” Brodnick said. “I also would like to thank my parents, who have always supported me and pushed me to achieve my goals.”
