Three Lakes native serving with Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group

WILLIAMSBURG, Va. – Chief Petty Officer Hunter Raatz, a native of Three Lakes, is serving in the U.S. Navy assigned to Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group operating out of Williamsburg, Virginia.

Raatz graduated in 2014 from Three Lakes High School. 

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

“My school had less than 200 kids from kindergarten to 12th grade, with a graduating class of only 54 students,” said Raatz. “While growing up I played a ton of sports including football, wrestling and track. Participating in sports taught me the importance of teamwork, hard work and to not quit when things get tough.”

Raatz joined the Navy eight years ago. Today, Raatz serves as an electrician's mate. 

“My job is to maintain all the electrical systems on ships and ashore, making sure there is power, lights, water and heat, all the essentials are up and running,” said Raatz. “I love what I do and I get to see the world all while doing it!”

Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group, headquartered in Williamsburg, Virginia, is made up of more than 3,300 personnel assigned to three regiments and seven battalions across the United States. Its mission is to deliver worldwide expeditionary logistics with active and reserve personnel to provide a wide range of supply and transportation support critical for peacetime efforts, crisis response, humanitarian and combat service missions. 

Serving in the Navy means Raatz is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.

“The U. S. Navy is a global force that is noticed all over the world by both our allies and our adversaries,” said Raatz. “The Navy is the first line of defense, as it’s quick to mobilize and a constant forward-operating presence.”

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 trained sailors and a strong Navy.

Raatz has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service. 

“The Chiefs Mess is a unique family and to have been selected to join this family is such an honor that I take so much pride in,” said Raatz. “Getting fitted for my first set of khaki uniforms was incredible. In a weird way I almost felt changed when I actually put on that significant uniform and cover. I remember looking in the mirror thinking how far I’ve come and that my hard work and dedication had paid off.”

As Raatz and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the U.S. Navy.

“I’m honored for the opportunity to lead my junior sailors,” said Raatz. “I’m thankful to my family for being there for me. I’m a family guy and talk to my folks weekly.”

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

“My wife is my rock,” added Raatz. “She has given up more than I ever could have, moved across the world and has sacrificed so much to prioritize my career. Plus she puts up with me!”