Jackson native serves with Navy expeditionary force in Virginia

By Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist John Osborne

Navy Office of Community Outreach

Seaman Cadejia Buck, a native of Jackson, Mississippi, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Marine Expeditionary Security Group 2, part of the Navy’s expeditionary force.

Buck graduated from Jim Hill High School in 2022.

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

“I learned to be humble growing up,” Buck said. “I started off slow in the Navy until I learned how to listen and be a better person.”

Buck joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Buck serves as a personnel specialist.

“I joined the Navy because I needed to get away from the bad influences of my hometown,” Buck said. “I am very proud of how far I’ve come, and it’s only going to get better.”

Maritime Expeditionary Security Group (MESG) 2, headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia, delivers the Navy’s front line of defense in coastal waters and ports around the globe. Its sailors are trained to patrol harbors, escort high-value ships, and guard maritime chokepoints where danger is most likely to appear. Whether operating from fast patrol craft or shoreside security positions, they ensure freedom of movement for U.S. and allied forces in contested environments.

MESG-2’s mission is built on vigilance and quiet strength. Their presence may not always make headlines, but their work underpins the safety of every operation that begins or ends at sea. In the littorals – where a small gap in security can have outsized consequences – MESG-2 stands as a constant, capable force, committed to keeping the Navy’s lifelines secure.

The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.

According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”

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.

Buck has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My proudest accomplishment was earning Blue Jacket of the Quarter at Naval Reserve Center Denver,” Buck said. “Having started off a little wrong, I was proud that I was able to turn it around and get recognized for doing a 180 turn in my Navy career.”

Buck 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 part of something bigger than myself,” Buck said. “I have a career and stability and structure in my life now thanks to the Navy.”

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

“I want to thank Senior Chief Travis Moore for being my mentor and always being there through the good and bad,” Buck said. “He still reaches out to me today, and his guidance has been key to me turning things around. I especially want to thank my parents, Camille Luckett and Claude Buck, for always being supportive.”

Buck continues to better herself outside of the Navy and has great plans for her future.

“I am currently enrolled in the Community College of Aurora, working towards a degree in criminal justice,” Buck said. “I eventually want to join the FBI.”