Aviation Machinist Mate 3rd Class Joseph Lambertz wasn’t always an excellent example of what a Petty Officer in the Navy should be. The obstacles he has overcome make him a great example of how hard work and dedication can make anyone succeed in the Navy.

Lambertz joined Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129 in January 2006, and like most “booters” was eager to learn everything. He worked hard in the phase shop, attained Collateral Duty Inspector (CDI) for Airframes work center 120 and was frocked to 3rd Class.

A few days later, he came to work intoxicated and got busted down to Airman Apprentice. “I was young and made a dumb choice but I didn’t want that decision to define me so I just kept going,” said Lambertz. He continued to work hard to prove himself and quickly earned his “turn” qualification.

He transferred to VAQ-133 Power Plants shop in August 2008 and began preparations for an Afghanistan deployment. Working hard, he regained his 3rd Class rank 110 Power Plant CDI within the first half of deployment.

Returning stateside following deployment didn’t change his drive. He became a night check supervisor and one of the squadron’s top ranking 3rd Classes.

Everything was looking good for Lambertz, but on the night of Oct. 17, 2009 he fell asleep while driving home and crashed his ¾ ton Silverado Chevy pick-up truck in a remote location. He suffered seven hours of grueling pain until someone noticed his vehicle off the side of the road. The seat belt broke off the frame, but it saved his life. He was airlifted Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.

He had a broken hip and ribs; and several cuts on his face that required stitches. The doctors told him he was lucky to be alive, but he would not be able to run or be as active as he was before and would always be in pain.

Lying in bed in pain was difficult. He questioned why he had survived the crash. Being on convalescent leave was a struggle. It took about six months of intense physical therapy and a year before he was cleared to go back to work.

“I didn’t understand why I survived, I was lost until I saw my son born and it all made sense after that,” said Lambert. “I survived for my son and his mother who stood by me through the whole thing.”

He received orders to the NAS Whidbey Island Honor Guard in early January 2010. He quickly learned the routine. By the second funeral he was the one to present the flag to the family.

“Lambertz was always professional and someone we could count on for last minute events.” said, Aviation Electrician’s Mate (AE) 2nd Class Joshua J. Ausman. “He excelled and became one of the leaders in Honor Guard. Families were thankful and full of pride when they received the flag. He even received coins from chiefs to officers when he would parade the colors in change of commands or retirements.”

Once Lambertz was declared physically fit for duty, he was faced with the decision to re-enlist and leave his family (deploy) or get out of the Navy. He did what he thought was best and packed his bags, reenlisting on Sep. 9, 2010 and heading out the next day to join VAQ-131.

“He worked hard and recovered from what could have ended his naval career,” aid Patton, “I am proud of him; he shows that hard work does pay off.”

Still on deployment, Lambertz has reclaimed his Power Plants CDI and is currently a day check supervisor. Life hasn’t been easy and he’s made a few mistakes, but his decision to work hard and “Stay Navy” seem to be the right one for him, his family and the Navy.