By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Petty Officer 3rd Class Philip Nunag, (far left), a sailor from Mabalacaat, Philippines, was named Blue Jacket of the Year for 2023 serving aboard USS Anchorage, an amphibious transport dock ship, operating out of San Diego, California.
BJOY is awarded to a junior sailor who exemplifies outstanding dedication to duty and superior performance by going above and beyond their assigned job.
“This is my proudest accomplishment because it was recognition for my work ethic,” said Nunag.
Nunag graduated from the Second Philippine International School in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2001 and from Our Lady of Fatima University in Valenzuela, Philippines, in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Nunag joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Nunag serves as an aviation boatswain’s mate (fuels) responsible for launching and recovering naval aircraft.
“I joined the Navy because I want to have a better life and future for me and my family,” said Nunag. “I want to be part of something bigger, to be a hero, have the chance to serve this beautiful country and see the world.”
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in the Philippines.
“Growing up in my hometown with not many things available for me or my family, taught me discipline that remained with me in the Navy,” said Nunag. “Additionally, I worked a lot of different jobs growing up, which has increased my work ethic.”
USS Anchorage is the second ship of the United States Navy to be the namesake of the U.S. city of Anchorage, Alaska.
According to Navy officials, an amphibious transport dock is a type of warship that embarks, transports and lands elements of a landing force for a variety of expeditionary warfare missions. Due to their inherent capabilities, these ships have been and will continue to be called upon to support humanitarian and other contingency missions on short notice.
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.
“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”
Nunag serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world, and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“The Navy life offers unrivaled opportunities to travel the world and experience exciting new cultures while helping me enhance my interpersonal skills and relationships, such as creating camaraderie, friendships, and interpersonal maturation,” added Nunag.
