Photo: Ensign Shelby Brueske, a native of Granby, Colorado, is Commander, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron (LCSRON) One’s Sailor in the Spotlight.  Courtesy Photo

Shelby Brueske says she credits success in the Navy to lessons learned growing up in Granby. Brueske, a 2015 graduate of Colorado State University, is a repair and electrical officer aboard USS Gabrielle Giffords, Responsible for six sailors and the operation, maintenance, and administration of all Electrical and Damage Control equipment.

“Be proud of what you do, work hard to get what you want, and respect the people around you who helped get you there,” Brueske said. “That has really helped me in the Navy.”

Littoral combat ships are a fast, agile, mission-focused vessels designed to operate in near-shore environments, while capable of open-ocean tasking, and win against 21st-century coastal threats such as submarines, mines, and swarming small craft.

The Surface Force is focused on providing lethal, ready, well-trained and logistically supported surface forces to fight today and in the future. The highly professional men and women serving aboard the USS Gabrielle Giffords are some of the nation’s best and brightest and are typical of the talented sailors on duty in the Navy around the world today. They are prepared to go into harm’s way, properly trained and ready to carry out orders in defense of the nation.

“Throughout my chain of command, the talent and care each sailor on board shares makes it all worthwhile,” Brueske said.

Brueske has many reasons to be proud of Naval service, and her most proud moment is earning her commission and being able to serve with her crew.

“I’m most proud of earning my commissioning because I will be the first Naval Officer in my family,” Brueske said. “I have the amazing opportunity to serve with some amazing people and carry on a family legacy at the same time.”

“Ensign Brueske is a phenomenal professional worthy of being the recipient of Sailor in the Spotlight for LCSRON,” said Senior Chief Gas Turbine System Technician Maria Lopez, USS Gabrielle Gifford’s Top Snipe. “From the day we met she operates with integrity and efficiency resulting in quality output. She is a trusted agent in the command, adhering to procedural compliance wherein tasks given will yield in solid end results needing little to no rework.”

Serving in the Armed Forces is a family tradition for Brueske.

“A majority of my family has served previously, so I am proud to carry on their legacy,” said Brueske. “Specifically I was drawn to the Navy because of my Dad, my Grandmother’s service in the WAVES during WWII, and my Grandpa’s time in the Marines during WWII.

“Serving in the Navy to me means to be part of something bigger than myself,” Brueske said. “To have the opportunity to better build myself and those around me, and to take pride in my work, my service, and my country.”