Filipino American sailor serves as hospital corpsman with U.S. Navy unit in Virginia

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Petty Officer 2nd Class Joshua Lusung serves the U.S. Navy as a hospital corpsman assigned to Assault Craft Unit Four, based in Virginia Beach. Lusung, who has family in the Philippines, credits his upbringing and cultural roots for shaping the values he brings to military service.

Lusung’s family ties trace back to Pampanga, where his aunt, Norlyn Dizon, continues to live. He said the lessons learned from his family environment align closely with the principles required in naval service.

Compassion rooted in Filipino values

Lusung said he was raised to prioritize empathy and compassion, qualities he believes are essential in his role as a corpsman. Those values, he added, have guided him throughout his Navy career.

As a hospital corpsman, Lusung is responsible for providing medical support to sailors, a role that demands both technical skill and emotional awareness. He said caring for others under pressure is where his upbringing has had the greatest impact.

Lusung joined the Navy 11 years ago, driven by a desire to serve his country. He said the familiarity and structure of military life appealed to him early on.

Service and opportunity through the Navy

Lusung said the opportunity to travel and experience different parts of the world solidified his decision to enlist. Once he realized the Navy offered both service and global exposure, he fully committed to the path.

Now stationed with Assault Craft Unit Four, Lusung continues to apply his medical training while supporting the unit’s mission. He said his work as a corpsman allows him to serve sailors directly while honoring the values instilled in him from a young age.

For Lusung, the Navy represents more than a career. It is a platform to serve others, apply lifelong lessons and maintain a connection to the cultural values passed down through his family.