Lt. Cmdr. James Bernsen, a native of Castroville, Texas, answered a personal call to service on Sept. 11, 2001, while working as a press secretary for a U.S. senator.
Witnessing the day’s events unfold in his Dallas office, Bernsen felt compelled to take action. Inspired by the World War II generation’s dedication, he was commissioned as a Navy Reserve intelligence officer, beginning a nearly two-decade career focused on national security.
'I couldn't sit there and tell others to serve if I wasn't willing to do it myself,' Bernsen said.
Over the years, Bernsen has supported critical operations worldwide, including deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and the South China Sea aboard the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76).
His role in Iraq, where he provided real-time intelligence to support commanders, stands out as a career highlight.
Workforce Commission, where he manages special projects.
His dual role exemplifies
“KNOWING I CONTRIBUTED TO GETTING SOMEONE OUT SAFELY MADE A LASTING IMPACT ON ME”
'One time, we had a downed aircraft, and I was asked to find a safe route to evacuate the crew within five minutes,' Bernsen recalled. 'Knowing I contributed to getting someone out safely made a lasting impact on me.'
In addition to his Navy Reserve service, Bernsen works for the Texas the Navy Reserve's mission of warfighting readiness, enabling reservists to serve while maintaining civilian careers.
'Being a citizen Sailor means being prepared,' Bernsen said. 'We've always got a core group ready to meet a crisis without needing an extensive active-duty force.'
