Story by
FLTCM (SW/SS) Rick West
Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command

Some of you may ask why the Navy needs to put so much emphasis on physical fitness. The answer is simple. Each of us needs to be ready, at a moment’s notice, to step up and do what’s necessary.

For some in our ranks, that means deploying to combat zones and working long hours in intense heat. For others, it means deploying on ships and submarines where maintaining your physical fitness is a challenge. My guess is that if you are not in shape when you deploy, you will have an uphill battle in trying to improve during deployment.

Getting in shape and staying in shape is not only a Navy leadership issue, it’s a personal responsibility. If you are overweight, the person most accountable for your situation is you. The Navy is going to continue to offer opportunities and equipment to help you lose weight and get in shape, but ultimately it’s you who needs to commit to the program.

If you haven’t figured it out yet, the Navy takes your health seriously, and so should you. As each of us aspires to leadership, I challenge each of you to help your shipmates around you who may need some motivational help. If you are going to the gym, take someone with you.

Working hard days and weeks on end will wear you down both physically and mentally. If you are not in good physical shape, you won’t be able to keep your body and mind sharp. The same can be said of uniform appearance - your appearance is a direct reflection of your attention to detail and discipline. If you don’t take the time to do the small things right (uniforms), you may not give the same level of attention to your work. Additionally, others may not give you the chance to get involved in important projects that could positively affect your career if they feel you don’t present an acceptable appearance. If you cut corners in your job and don’t think appearance matters, you lower your operational readiness.

Whether or not the Navy truly becomes a more fit service depends on each of us to realize our role, both personally and as leaders. Command support is paramount. We need to promote physical fitness and healthy lifestyles. We need to ensure each Sailor has the opportunity to participate in physical fitness activities. We need to ensure those Sailors who are outside our standard are provided motivation and assistance to bring them back into standards. And that means you! I am counting on each and every one of you to do your best to get in shape, stay in shape, and help your shipmates around you to improve their health as well.

You are all doing some great things in our Navy. Every day I am amazed at the talent and work ethic that keeps our Navy at the forefront. Stay safe and look out for your shipmates. Hoo-yah.

Fleet tip: Did you know that Navy Morale, Welfare and Recreation has trained professionals that will assist you with a fitness regiment? All you have to do is ask.