Photo: Lieutenant Amber Zufelt – United States Navy – submitted
DEMING – A Bloomfield native serving in the United States Navy recently took part in a solemn tribute honoring the legacy of the Bataan Death March and the service members who endured one of the most difficult chapters of World War II history.
Lt. Amber Zufelt, a native of Bloomfield, New Mexico, traveled to White Sands Missile Range in southern New Mexico March 19th through the 21st as part of a commemorative event recognizing the fallen heroes of the Bataan Death March. Zufelt is assigned to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan and currently serves as the ship’s operations officer while stationed in Norfolk, Virginia.
Zufelt is a graduate of Bloomfield High School, Class of 2004, and later earned her degree from American Military University in 2018. She joined the Navy more than 21 years ago and continues to serve in a leadership role supporting naval operations around the world.
The tribute at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico is held annually to remember the thousands of American and Filipino troops who suffered and died during the forced march following the fall of the Philippines in 1942. The event also highlights the enduring connection between the military and communities across New Mexico.
With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber-optic cables, Navy officials emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is closely tied to recruiting and retaining talented people from communities across the nation.
Zufelt said her career in the Navy has provided opportunities for growth, leadership and service.
“The Navy has given me more opportunities than I could have imagined, and it has demanded commitment, resilience, and continuous learning,” Zufelt said. “Serving for over 21 years, my proudest accomplishment is seeing my shipmates thrive after I have moved on. Sharing my sea stories and mentoring the next generation of naval warfighters who continue to serve will never get boring to me.”
Zufelt serves in a Navy that operates around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s security and economic stability.
“Serving in the Navy has given me a purpose to be someone the team can rely on when the pressure is on,” Zufelt said. “Most of all, serving is knowing you are a part of the team that mentors, overcomes adversity, and stands the watch to contribute to protecting and strengthening our nation.”
Zufelt also expressed gratitude to the mentors, family members and colleagues who helped support her journey and make a long-term Navy career possible.
This year’s observances come as the U.S. Navy marks its contributions to national defense during the nation’s celebration of 250 years of independence. Officials encourage community members to recognize the service and sacrifice of sailors and veterans, especially those with ties to local communities across New Mexico. More information and updates are available on the Navy Outreach Facebook page at Facebook.com/NavyOutreach.