“Growing up in the Bronx, they call it the iron jungle for a reason,” said U.S. Navy sailor Frankie Garcia.

Garcia is living on a different kind of metal. He is a long way from Morris Park in the Bronx, but says he feels at home aboard the USS Florida. The missile technician 3rd class, joined the U.S. Navy 16 months ago.  Already he's responsible for maintaining and if needed, launching missiles. He recalls the first time he got a good look at a submarine.

"I saw a submarine just gliding. And I said wow. Is that really happening,” said Garcia.

Petty Officer Garcia says boot camp was hard, but being away from family is one of the hardest parts of the job.

“I come from a pretty large family. If you’ve ever seen West Side Story, that’s how I came about. You have the Italians and the Puerto Ricans and I’m here," he said.

Still the 21 year-old is on a mission.

“We are everywhere, air, land and sea. You’ll find us anywhere and you can’t beat us. We have the most elite performers in the world," said Garcia.

That comes with a heavy workload and strict regimen. He sticks to a schedule down to the minute. He admits it can be intense, but he is no quitter.

“Start on the path. Stay on the path and go all the way," he said.

Garcia said that’s his way to honor fellow service men and women on Veteran’s Day and beyond.

“We have to give homage to all those that have come before us throughout time and respect the work, and time, honor the sacrifice they have done. Because it is not free and it is not cheap," said Garcia.

For now the USS Florida is stationed in Kings Bay Georgia, and he is adapting well.

“Tuesday is Taco Tuesdays. And on the good days, as I call them, It's steak and potatoes," he said.

Still, Garcia said there’s no place like home and its pizza.