From College Park to the Heartland, Sailor Supports U.S. Navy’s “Take Charge and Move Out” Mission
By ALVIN PLEXICO
Navy Office of Community Outreach
OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (Dec 11, 2025)—Every sailor’s story of naval service is unique. For Airman Daniel Garcia, this story began in College Park, Maryland, where skills and values learned there would be foundational to success in the Navy.
“I learned growing up to work hard for what you want in life because nothing is ever handed to you,” Garcia said.
Garcia graduated from Parkdale High School in 2018.
Garcia joined the Navy two years ago.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to provide new opportunities for my family,” Garcia said. “I also wanted to serve my country.”
Today, Garcia serves as an aviation maintenance administrationman assigned to Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron Three (VQ-3) in Oklahoma City. Garcia supports the nation’s nuclear deterrence mission at Strategic Communications Wing One (STRATCOMMWING ONE). Its “Take Charge and Move Out” (TACAMO) mission provides airborne communication links to nuclear missile units of U.S. Strategic Command.
The TACAMO mission originated in 1961 when a Marine Corps aircraft was used to test the feasibility of an airborne Very Low Frequency (VLF) communications system. Once the test was successful, funding for the program was granted, and it has continued to grow ever since.
The U.S. Navy’s presence on an Air Force base in a landlocked state may seem strange, but the position is strategic, allowing squadrons to quickly deploy around the world in support of the TACAMO mission.
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.
Garcia has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I am proud to represent my command’s honor and represent our Navy’s core values,” Garcia said.
Garcia 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 provides lots of opportunities,” Garcia said. “It’s an honor to serve my country and help better those around me.”
Garcia is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my wife, Miryam, and our kids for their support throughout this journey,” Garcia added.
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Fun Spring Events to Support Care and Community at Hospice of the Chesapeake
By ELYZABETH MARCUSSEN
Hospice of the Chesapeake
PASADENA, Md. (Dec. 9, 2025)—Hospice of the Chesapeake invites the community to celebrate spring with three unforgettable signature events designed to fuel its mission of providing compassionate hospice, supportive and grief care across the region.
Mark your calendars for these April, May and June experiences that each offer their own blend of excitement, elegance and community impact:
• Bubbles and Bingo: A Black-Tie Affair—6 p.m. Friday, April 10
After last year’s successful debut of this bingo meets glam, its return was a guarantee. This year, the event will be held at the U.S. Naval Academy’s Fluegel Alumni Center. Guests will enjoy sparkling cocktails, champagne, and an exceptional gourmet dinner. The fun continues with lively bingo rounds, each offering a chance at luxurious prizes. Proceeds provide essential care and support to patients and families in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles and Prince George’s counties.
• Boots and Bling: A Culinary Experience—6 p.m. Friday, May 8
Expect a night full of flair, flavor and waterfront charm. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the beautiful Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort in Chesapeake Beach, guests will enjoy delicious, themed food stations; delightful cocktails; and a silent auction brimming with one-of-a-kind local items. With music and sweeping Chesapeake Bay views, it’s an evening designed for pure enjoyment—all while bringing comfort and care to families in Calvert County.
• Fashion for a Cause—6 p.m. Thursday, June 4
A perennial favorite, Annapolis’s premier fashion celebration returns to the U.S. Naval Academy’s Fluegel Alumni Center. This red-carpet event spotlights the season’s best looks, with community models showcasing summer 2026 styles from local boutiques. Guests will savor signature cocktails and an array of sweet and savory offerings from area restaurants and food trucks before and after the high-energy runway show. The event supports the nonprofit’s Community Health programs, including Chesapeake Kids, a vital program serving children with life-limiting illnesses and young people coping with grief.
For tickets, sponsorships or underwriting opportunities, please contact the events team at 443-837-1531 or events@hospicechesapeake.org.
At Hospice of the Chesapeake, we support individuals and families facing progressive, serious illness to reimagine hope—living each day with intention and peace—while ensuring our nonprofit organization remains a vital resource for future generations. We develop care plans to minimize symptoms and focus on what matters most for patients and families in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles and
Prince George’s counties. For details, visit https://www.hospicechesapeake.org
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