The Source for Navy News
Recruiters Take Over Local Airwaves
Story Number: NNS041008-08
Release Date: 10/8/2004 12:41:00 PM
By Chief Journalist John Harrington, Navy Recruiting District New York Public Affairs
ELIZABETH, N.J. (NNS) -- U.S. Navy recruiters from Navy Recruiting District New York found a unique way to "talk" with their community as they appeared on a local television program in Elizabeth, N.J., Sept. 26.
Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class (AW) Jorge Vargas, a recruiter from Navy Recruiting Station (NRS) Elizabeth, and Navy Counselor 2nd Class Stephan Pereira, a Reserve recruiter from Naval Reserve Recruiting Station (NRRS) Newark, were warmly welcomed to the Cablevision studios, where they were interviewed live-to-tape with show host Erick Hernandez on life in the U.S. Navy and the benefits and requirements of serving. The 30-minute local program showcases community leaders and airs throughout Elizabeth, as well as in local high schools.
"I think it lets us talk to a different range of people who we may not always have contact with," said Pereira. "Many times, we're speaking with students and others who we meet at events or out in town, but many of the people we're looking for in the Reserves are those people who already have jobs. They work all day and they tune into the local channel to see what's going on in their community. This program allows us to make contact with these people and to show them the opportunities that we offer."
The ability to communicate well with their communities is an important skill found in good recruiters. The more people that recruiters can speak with, the more people that are aware of what the Navy can offer them. Recruiters are constantly searching for new ways to reach out to the public, and it was this desire that prompted the recruiters' appearance on TV.
"I knew that the mayor did this show, so I contacted his office to see what the possibility was for us to be on with him," said Navy Counselor 1st Class (SS) William Maher, recruiter-in-charge of NRS Elizabeth. "I know that the community would watch this show because of the host. It may not generate a new recruit when it airs, but I believe it will help us plant the seed that will one day turn into a future Sailor."
Being on a television program can be a new frontier for many recruiters. Public speaking is a talent that recruiters practice every day, but it can be a whole new ballgame when studio lights shine brightly and the camera's rolling.
"It was tough. I was a little nervous at first," said Vargas. "But after the first few minutes, I kind of liked it!"
Vargas quickly fell into his niche during the interview when asked of his experience in the Navy. Vargas, a native of Lima, Peru, explained how his entire life was changed for the better by serving in the Navy.
"I simply would not have had the opportunities to grow and be as successful as I have if I had stayed in Peru," Vargas said. "I would do it again in a heartbeat. I would do it 10 times over."
Vargas, like many recruiters, shows a great deal of pride in his service, and he considered this a priceless opportunity to tell that story to his community.
"Just to have someone come up to you on the street and thank you for serving, that just makes my day," said Vargas. "The Navy has been very good to me. Now it's about letting the public know how the Navy can make their life better, as well."
For related news, visit the Navy Recruiting District New York Navy NewsStand page at www.news.navy.mil/local/nrdny.
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