In Summary:
Madison Herrera, an Apopka resident and Lake Brantley High School graduate, is serving in the U.S. Navy as a yeoman with the Seabees in Gulfport, Mississippi. She joined the Navy to pursue education opportunities and has since taken on significant administrative responsibilities within her command. Herrera also completed Expeditionary Combat School, gaining tactical and security training as part of her service.
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An Apopka resident is serving in the U.S. Navy with a unit known for its global reach and “Can Do” reputation.
Petty Officer 3rd Class Madison Herrera, an Apopka native and 2022 graduate of Lake Brantley High School, is currently assigned to Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) in Gulfport, Mississippi, home to the Atlantic Fleet Seabees.
Related: Sailor with family ties to Apopka serves with Navy Medicine in Italy.
Herrera, who joined the Navy three years ago, serves as a yeoman, handling administrative duties that support the command's mission.
“I joined the Navy for college,” Herrera said. “I wanted to go into nursing or be an ultrasound technician.”
The Navy’s Seabees — formally known as naval construction forces — are tasked with building and maintaining critical infrastructure in support of military operations around the world. Their work includes constructing roads, bridges, airfields, bunkers, and logistics bases, as well as assisting in disaster recovery and humanitarian efforts.
At NCBC Gulfport, sailors support both construction operations and the broader mission of the Navy, ensuring forces are ready to deploy wherever needed.
Herrera said her role has come with significant responsibility.
“I was the only sailor taking care of the administrative side here in my command for a while,” she said.
In addition to her day-to-day duties, Herrera completed Expeditionary Combat School in 2023, where she received training in security, tactical operations, and weapons proficiency.
“I went through the Expeditionary Combat School in 2023 and learned about security, tactical and weapons proficiency skills,” Herrera added.
The U.S. Navy operates globally, maintaining a constant presence to support national security and economic stability. Officials note that with 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and the world’s communications infrastructure relying heavily on undersea fiber optic cables, the Navy’s mission remains critical.
“Serving in the Navy means we have one common goal, which is to serve our country,” Herrera said.
This year, the Navy is also marking its role in the nation’s history as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence, highlighting more than two centuries of maritime service and defense.
Herrera credited her family for helping her reach this point in her career.
“I would like to thank my mom, Misty Stevenson, for her continuous support,” she said.
From Apopka to Gulfport, Herrera’s journey reflects a commitment to service — and the continued presence of local residents making an impact on a global stage.
Key Points:
- Apopka resident Madison Herrera serves with the Navy’s Seabees in Gulfport, Mississippi
- Herrera graduated from Lake Brantley High School in 2022 and joined the Navy three years ago
- She works as a yeoman, handling administrative operations for her command
- Completed Expeditionary Combat School in 2023, gaining tactical and weapons training
- Credits her mother, Misty Stevenson, for supporting her Navy journey
