Every service member has a story, and for Petty Officer 3rd Class Joseph Mormando, that journey began in Delran, New Jersey. Growing up in a community that emphasized pride, responsibility, and dedication helped shape the values that now guide his career in the U.S. Navy.
“I learned growing up that a strong, local pride can fuel a deep sense of duty and honor,” Mormando said. “This can motivate you to serve your country with commitment.”
Mormando graduated from Delran High School in 2020 and joined the Navy shortly after, seeking opportunities beyond the remote learning environments imposed by COVID-19. “During COVID, colleges were all online, and I didn’t want to sit behind a computer all day,” he explained. “So, I joined the Navy. I also wanted to travel and get to go to college for free.”
Today, Mormando serves as an aviation electronics technician with Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron Three (VQ-3) in Oklahoma City. His work directly supports the Navy’s Take Charge and Move Out (TACAMO) mission, a critical component of U.S. strategic defense. TACAMO ensures that airborne communication links remain operational between nuclear missile units and U.S. Strategic Command, reinforcing the nation’s nuclear deterrence capabilities.
The TACAMO mission traces its origins back to 1961, when the Marine Corps tested an airborne Very Low Frequency communications system. The success of that experiment laid the groundwork for a program that has grown in scope and sophistication over the decades. While the Navy’s presence on an Air Force base in a landlocked state might seem unusual, Oklahoma City offers a strategic location that allows rapid deployment worldwide to support the mission.
Mormando’s role extends beyond technical responsibilities. He takes pride in mentoring junior sailors, helping them grow both professionally and personally. “I am most proud of mentoring and helping junior sailors grow and succeed,” he said. “That is an extremely rewarding and impactful part of my job.”
This year, the U.S. Navy is marking its 250th anniversary, a milestone reflecting centuries of service and global presence. Navy officials note that, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.” With nearly 90% of international commerce traveling by sea and the security of undersea fiber optic cables critical to global communication, the Navy underscores that recruiting skilled and committed personnel like Mormando is essential to safeguarding the nation’s prosperity.
For Mormando, serving in the Navy has offered growth, camaraderie, and the ability to provide for his family. “Serving in the Navy allows me to grow as a person, provide for my family, and make life-long friends,” he shared. He also expressed gratitude for the support that has made his career possible. “I want to thank my family for their support,” he added.
As sailors like Mormando continue to serve across the globe, their stories reflect both the personal journeys of individual service members and the broader mission of the U.S. Navy to protect, communicate, and sustain the nation. For those interested in learning more about the Navy’s operations and its critical missions, further insights are available through the Navy website, highlighting programs and initiatives that engage and support service members and community leaders alike.
The Navy’s 250-year history stands as a testament to the enduring dedication of its personnel, and sailors like Joseph Mormando embody the values, commitment, and professionalism that continue to safeguard America today. More information on the Navy’s 250th anniversary is available through the official Navy website.
Just over the bridge from Delran and in Philly, where I’m sure this sailor spent much time, his Navy football team edged Army in a thrilling 126th Army-Navy Game to secure the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy. In a dramatic conclusion to the 126th edition of “America’s Game,” the Navy Midshipmen narrowly defeated the Army Black Knights 17–16 on Saturday, December 13, 2025, in Baltimore. The tightly contested matchup, held at M&T Bank Stadium, featured standout performances, strategic plays, and a decisive finish that will be remembered by fans for years to come.
The defining moment came late in the fourth quarter. Down 16–10, Navy quarterback Blake Horvath orchestrated a critical drive that culminated in an 8-yard touchdown pass to Eli Heidenreich on fourth-and-goal, giving the Midshipmen a one-point lead with just over six minutes remaining.
Horvath’s dual-threat performance was a key factor in Navy’s victory; he rushed for 107 yards and a touchdown while passing for 82 yards, including the game-winning score. Army quarterback Cale Hellums made a strong debut, contributing 100 rushing yards and 82 passing yards, keeping the Black Knights competitive throughout the contest.
With this victory, Navy clinched the 2025 Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, having triumphed over both Army and Air Force this season. The win also granted the Midshipmen the honored tradition of singing second during the post-game alma mater ceremonies, a symbolic reflection of their hard-fought success. President Donald Trump attended the game, marking his sixth appearance and underscoring the enduring national significance of this historic rivalry.
The Army-Navy series, steeped in tradition and pageantry, now stands at 64–55–7 in favor of Navy, adding another chapter to a rivalry that has captivated audiences for over a century. Looking ahead, the 127th Army-Navy Game is set for December 12, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, while the 2027 edition will return to its traditional neutral site in Philadelphia at Lincoln Financial Field, with Navy designated as the home team.
Following the regular season, both teams continue their campaigns in bowl games. Army, finishing with a 6–6 record, will face UConn in the Fenway Bowl on December 27, 2025. Navy, closing the season at 10–2, is scheduled to compete against Cincinnati in the Liberty Bowl on January 2, 2026, offering another stage to showcase their resilience and skill.
For fans and followers of collegiate football, the Army-Navy Game remains a pinnacle event blending athletic competition, military tradition, and national pride. From decisive plays on the field to enduring rituals off it, the rivalry exemplifies the spirit and commitment of both service academies. Those looking for more in-depth coverage and analysis of college football, including game previews, recaps, and player highlights, can explore additional content on football in New Jersey, offering insights and updates for enthusiasts statewide.
The 126th Army-Navy Game proved once again why this matchup is one of the most celebrated and fiercely contested in American sports, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this storied rivalry.
For a complete account of Petty Officer 3rd Class Joseph Mormando’s journey from South Jersey to his vital role supporting the Navy’s Take Charge and Move Out mission, please read the full story by Megan Lemly from the Navy Office of Community Outreach. This detailed feature profiles how Mormando’s upbringing in Delran shaped his values, what motivated him to enlist during the COVID‑19 pandemic, and how his work as an aviation electronics technician with Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron Three contributes to strategic defense operations from Oklahoma City. That article also highlights links and information about and to the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary and the significance of service pages along with its’ mentorship, and personal growth throughout a naval career.
