Rik Hayes (right), a 2015 Pennridge graduate, currently serves as a cryptologic warfare officer in signals intelligence. (Courtesy of the Navy Office of Community Outreach)
Lt. J.G. Rik Hayes, a native of Line Lexington, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Beachmaster Unit (BMU) 2, operating out of Virginia Beach, VA
LTJG Rik Hayes, a native of Line Lexington, Hilltown Township, Bucks County, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Beachmaster Unit (BMU) 2, operating out of Virginia Beach, VA.
Hayes graduated from Pennridge High School in 2015. He went on to earn an associate degree in political science from Valley Forge Military College in 2017, a bachelor’s degree in international relations from Penn State in 2019 and a master’s certificate in Cybersecurity from Old Dominion University in 2025, according to a news release.
“Growing up participating in AP classes, multiple sports and extracurricular activities, I learned the value of perseverance and resilience at Pennridge High School,” Hayes said in a news release. “Those lessons helped push me through the hardest days in the Navy and reminded me that determination and grit can carry you through anything.”
Hayes joined the Navy six years ago. Today, he serves as a cryptologic warfare officer in signals intelligence, said NAVCO in a news release.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to serve my country while building a career that would challenge me, develop my leadership skills and open doors for future opportunities,” Hayes said.
BMU-2 provides tactical components and expertise in support of amphibious operations. The unit enables a smooth beach landing and movement of personnel, equipment and supplies from landing craft, air cushions and mechanized and utility landing craft.
Beachmasters are the final link in the chain projecting American naval power ashore. Since 1949, BMU-2 assets have been involved in major amphibious exercises and operations in Lebanon, Cuba, Grenada, Desert Storm, Kosovo and Afghanistan.
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year. According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Hayes has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service, said NAVCO in the release.
“I am most proud of the work I did to support the sailors in the SEAL/Special Warfare Combatant Craft crewman communities,” Hayes said. “Working with them was a highlight of my naval career.”
Hayes serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security, said NAVCO in the news release.
“Serving in the Navy has been both an honor and a responsibility,” Hayes said. “It has given me the chance to test myself, to grow as a leader and to be part of something greater than myself.”
Hayes is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my family and the staff and administration at the Pennridge School System for their constant support through my formative years,” Hayes said. “They have always stood by me and I wouldn’t have made it this far without their love, encouragement and investment of time and care.”
