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Wetmore native participates in world’s largest international maritime warfare exercise
By Vicki Sonnenberg, chief yeomanAugust 8, 2026
4 min read
Petty Officer 2nd Class Logan Borchert
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PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii – Petty Officer 2nd Class Logan Borchert, a native of Wetmore in Alger County, serves aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt, a U.S. Navy warship participating in the biennial Rim of the Pacific exercise in and around the Hawaiian Islands
Borchert graduated from Gladstone High School in 2019 and joined the Navy six years ago
“I joined the Navy to honor those who served before me and to build a legacy for those who come after me,” Borchert said. “I was the first in my family to join the military, and my decision inspired my brother to serve in the Army. Serving has allowed me to make a positive impact while continuing a tradition of service.”
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Wetmore
“Growing up, I worked a variety of odd jobs where I was always helping others,” Borchert said. “Those experiences taught me the value of hard work, teamwork, and stepping in wherever I am needed. I carry those same values with me every day by supporting my shipmates and assisting other departments whenever I can.”
Today, Borchert serves as an electrician’s mate
As the world’s largest international maritime exercise, 31 nations, approximately 40 surface ships, five submarines, 14 national land forces, over 140 aircraft and more than 25,000 personnel will participate in RIMPAC 2026. This exercise provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring safety at sea and security on the world’s oceans. RIMPAC 2026 marks the 30th exercise in a series that began in 1971
The theme of RIMPAC 2026 is “Partners: Integrated and Prepared.” The participating nations and forces exercise a wide range of capabilities and demonstrate the inherent flexibility of maritime forces. These capabilities range from disaster relief and maritime security operations to sea control and complex warfighting. The relevant, realistic training program includes gunnery, missile, anti-submarine and air defense exercises, as well as amphibious, counter-piracy, mine clearance operations, explosive ordnance disposal and diving and salvage operations.
It is fitting that the world’s premier maritime exercise occurs as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary. For 250 years, the United States has built relationships with international partners based on trust, cooperation, and shared values. RIMPAC is where that trust is put into practice, strengthening the people-to-people relationships that are the bedrock of all the nations’ collective security
Borchert plays an important role in the exercise
“RIMPAC is an incredible experience,” Borchert said. “It is impressive to see so many nations working together toward a common goal. Building relationships and strengthening partnerships with our international allies is what makes this exercise so valuable. As the on-duty electrician, I ensure the ship’s electrical systems are operating safely and reliably. I also help prepare the ship for public tours so visitors can have the best possible experience while learning about the Navy and our mission.”
Borchert serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security
“Serving in the Navy means everything to me. I’m proud of the work I do every day and the opportunity to serve alongside dedicated professionals,” Borchert said. “I cannot imagine doing anything else that would be as rewarding.”
Borchert is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible
“I would like to thank my parents for always supporting me and encouraging me to keep pushing forward through every challenge,” Borchert added. “Their belief in me has made a tremendous difference throughout my career. I would also like to thank my first Top Snipe, Senior Chief Gas Turbine Systems Technician Noriega, aboard USS Paul Hamilton. He taught me to look at challenges from different perspectives and reminded me that every problem has a solution if you’re willing to work through it. My goal is to continue learning, gain as much experience as possible throughout my career, and retire knowing I gave my best to the Navy and the sailors I served alongside.”
