Stephanie Friginal U.S. Navy sailor excels aboard USS Chung-Hoon, drawing inspiration from Filipino heritage

Stephanie Friginal, a sailor from Manila, Philippines, serves aboard the USS Chung-Hoon, a U.S. Navy guided missile destroyer based in San Diego, California. She joined the Navy three years ago and now works as a culinary specialist, preparing meals for her shipmates while adapting to the demanding life at sea.

Friginal credits her Filipino roots and family for her resilience and adaptability. “I’ve learned from my mom to remember where you came from and to remember your roots,” she said. Her stepfather, who passed while she was in boot camp, inspired her to persevere and pursue a career in the Navy.

Drawing strength from family and opportunity

For Friginal, joining the Navy was both a personal and professional milestone. “I joined because I was an immigrant, and I came here with my mom and sisters,” she explained. “The Navy provided opportunities to travel, become independent, and foster relationships along the way.”

Her dedication has already been recognized. Within a year and a half, she earned the rank of petty officer third class and was nominated for Culinary Specialist Sailor of the Quarter. Passing her E-5 exam marked another step forward in her career, opening doors for future advancement.

Serving aboard USS Chung-Hoon and beyond

The USS Chung-Hoon, named after Rear Adm. Gordon P. Chung-Hoon, is a multi-mission destroyer equipped with Tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns, and a Phalanx close-in weapons system. Over 300 sailors serve aboard, performing highly specialized jobs ranging from weaponry to engineering to keep the ship mission-ready.

Friginal emphasizes the importance of sacrifice and flexibility in the Navy. “Serving means stepping out of your comfort zone, learning anything every day, and being willing to adapt,” she said. She credits her family for ongoing support, noting that her sisters are her closest confidantes and strongest supporters.

Serving in the Navy during its 250th anniversary, Friginal contributes to missions that promote U.S. prosperity and security worldwide, ensuring safe commerce and protecting critical undersea infrastructure.