SAN DIEGO – Cmdr. Andrew Recame, a native of Clinton, New Jersey, serves aboard USS Cincinnati, a U.S. Navy warship operating out of San Diego, California.
Recame graduated from North Hunterdon High School in 2003. He joined the Navy 17 years ago. Today, Recame serves as the commanding officer of the warship.
“I joined the Navy to build on a family tradition of patriotic duty, to see the world, and to be part of something bigger than myself,” said Recame. “I’ve always been drawn to and inspired by the ocean. Plus, it didn’t hurt that the Navy has the most desirable locations for its homeports!”
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Clinton.
“Looking back, I can easily trace my sense of adventure and affinity towards service back to my childhood,” said Recame. “Growing up, I also learned that anything worthwhile isn’t easy. Hard work, respect, and teamwork were — and continue to be — keys to success.”
Cincinnati is a fast, optimally-manned, mission-tailored surface combatant that operates in near-shore and open-ocean environments, according to Navy officials. Littoral combat ships (LCSs) integrate with joint, combined, manned and unmanned teams to support forward-presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence missions around the globe.
According to Navy officials, LCSs are hybrid surface combatants that lead manned-unmanned teams using unmanned aerial systems like the Fire Scout and Expeditionary Ordnance Disposal forces unmanned underwater vehicles. They conduct forward and maritime security missions like the Secretary of Defense Oceania Maritime Security Initiative. The ships also strengthen partnerships through port visits in small island nations like Tahiti and Fiji due to their shallow-depth hull.
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.
Recame serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“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.”
Recame has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I am most proud of being selected for and taking command of a U.S. Navy warship — command at sea is the pinnacle achievement for a Surface Warfare Officer,” said Recame. “That said, it is extremely humbling to be placed in charge of a $500 million combatant vessel and entrusted with the lives and welfare of her entire crew. While the burden of the captain is great, it is the job I’ve strived for my entire career.”
Recame can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means I get to represent my country on the forefront of international events, being an active part of history, while serving alongside America’s finest sons and daughters,” said Recame. “I have the opportunity to live out principles of servant leadership every day, putting others first and witnessing the growth and dedication of our incredible sailors. While the Navy requires sacrifice and spending time away from home, it’s brought me to 30+ foreign countries with countless memorable experiences. At the end of the day, I know I am making the world a safer place for those I love.”
Recame is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“It certainly takes a village, and I would not be where I am today without the teachers, coaches, leaders, and mentors who invested in my future,” added Recame. “I would like to specifically thank my mom and dad who instilled me with a sense of purpose and allowed me to explore my full potential. I also want to recognize my late grandfather, a World War II Navy veteran, who was my hero and role model for how to live, laugh, and love. Lastly, I could not do what I do today without my wife who is my life partner and mother of our three children. They are the ones who make the real sacrifices, so before you thank me for my service, please, thank our families.”
