Borough son Idris Anaisah is a U.S.Navy logistics specialist presently serving at Camp Smith in Hawaii.
A graduate of San Gregory’s College in Obalende, Lagos, Nigeria, Anaisah has been stationed in at the Navy’s United States Pacific Command.
According to Navy officials, the U.S. Pacific Fleet is the world’s largest fleet command, encompassing 100 million square miles — nearly half the Earth’s surface — from Antarctica to the Arctic Circle and from the West Coast of the United States into the Indian Ocean.
As a logistics specialist, Anaisah is responsible for ensuring an efficient supply system aboard ship by ordering repair parts, conducting financial management inventory, ensuring management of the ship’s store, and providing services at sea.
“Perseverance and belief in your abilities help me be productive in the military,” he said. “During my childhood I learned not to give up.”
Anaisah has no previous military ties — no family members have previously served — but he’s honored to initiate a family tradition.
“I am the first generation from my family to serve in the military,” Anaisah said.
Being stationed near Pearl Harbor — often referred to in Defense circles as the gateway to the Pacific — means that Anaisah is serving in a part of the world that is taking on new importance in America’s national defense strategy.
The Navy has plans, by 2020, to base approximately 60 percent of its ships and aircraft in the region. Officials say the Navy will also provide its most advanced warfighting platforms to the region, including missile defense-capable ships; submarines; reconnaissance aircraft; and its newest surface warfare ships, including all of the Navy’s new stealth destroyers.
Officials say the Navy has been pivotal in helping maintain peace and stability in the Pacific region for decades. The Pacific is home to more than 50 percent of the world’s population, many of the world’s largest and smallest economies, several of the world’s largest militaries, and many U.S. allies.
As a member of the Navy, Anaisah and other sailors know they are part of a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes, providing the military strength and protection the nation needs.
“The Navy means discipline to me,” added Anaisah. “Serving goes beyond fighting for America. It is an idea of keeping freedom alive all over the world.”
