Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Tobias Levene | U.S. Navy Personnel Specialist Chief Petty Officer Teena Porter, from Portland,...... read more read more
Teena Porter sought to experience the larger world around her as a young person growing up in Portland, Oregon. So in 1987, she decided to join the U.S. Navy and see the world. She served as an engineman, separating in 1989. However, this marked the beginning of her next chapter of military service. In 2007, after her ex-husband retired from a 20-year Navy career, Porter re-entered military service by joining the Navy Reserve, drilling out of Navy Reserve Center Amarillo, determined to complete what she had started nearly two decades earlier.
Years ago, while serving on active duty as an engineman, it was still uncommon for women to work in what was considered a male-dominated field. Despite her joy in working on machinery and getting grease under her nails, there were few women in these technical roles.
In 2007, Porter re-entered military service through the Reserve Component to Active Component (RC2AC) program as a personnel specialist (PS), rejoining as a second class petty officer, skipping the rank of third class entirely. Today, she is assigned to Navy Reserve Center Amarillo, and she still says she “loves it.” With renewed purpose, Porter prioritizes customer service, handling every Sailor’s pay as if it were her own.
“Members’ pay is vitally important. If we can correct issues or simply explain why something may have happened, it is the highlight of my day!” Porter remarked.
Throughout her 18-year Navy career, Porter has accumulated a wealth of hands-on experience. She recently completed her ninth career deployment and fourth deployment to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Africa, where she served as the Pay and Support Office Department Leading Chief Petty Officer (DLCPO). In addition to her primary responsibilities, she serves as the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC), Mortuary Affairs Senior Enlisted Leader (SEL), and Treasurer for the Chief Petty Officer Association (CPOA).
Porter attributes her success to lessons learned during a challenging upbringing. “Growing up was rough, and I believe those experiences made me a stronger individual, building resilience and problem-solving skills,” she said.
While she may not be on the front lines, Porter’s work directly impacts the warfighter. Her efforts ensure Sailors and their families have peace of mind, knowing their pay and entitlements are managed professionally and efficiently.
“For me, warfighter readiness means mental resilience, continuous improvement of skills, and a focus on retention and recruitment,” Porter explained. “It’s about being mentally and physically prepared for any task in service to our country.”
Chief Porter credits her daughters, Amanda and Brittani, for supporting her throughout her career. Now grown with families of their own, they assist with responsibilities like pet care, home maintenance, and car registration, allowing her to continue serving without worry. “I’m proud to be part of such a wonderful family,” Porter shared. “Their support makes my continued service possible.”
| Date Taken: | 03.08.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 03.17.2025 16:25 |
| Story ID: | 492317 |
| Location: | AMARILLO, TEXAS, US |
| Hometown: | PORTLAND, OREGON, US |
| Web Views: | 82 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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