We Are MSC: Second Officer/Navigator Lukas Pliksnys
05 December 2025
WE ARE MSC --
We Are MSC – Second Officer/Navigator Lukas Pliksnys
This week’s “We Are MSC” highlights Alton Bay, New Hampshire native Lukas Pliksnys, the Second Officer aboard expeditionary fast transport vessel USNS Cody (T-EPF 14).
How long have you worked with MSC?
Pliksnys: I have worked for Military Sealift Command since 2018.
Is the life of a CIVMAR hard or easy? Explain.
Pliksnys: It is neither hard nor easy being a Civil Service Mariner. In truth, there is a big learning curve in understanding your roles and responsibilities as a CIVMAR; but once you get the hang of them, it all makes sense.
How do you maintain a work-life balance, and why is it important for a CIMVAR?
Pliksnys: To maintain my work-life balance, I spend my free time with family and friends, making sure our time together is as memorable as possible by going on trips that are unusual, exciting, and often involve physical activity. Over the years, I’ve realized that the world does not stop spinning just because I am out to sea. Therefore, when I’m shoreside, it is important that I make time for self-care, which improves my overall health and well-being, and ultimately increases my productivity aboard USNS Cody.
As USNS Cody’s (T-EPF 14) second officer/navigator, what are your roles and responsibilities?
Pliksnys: As the second officer/navigator for USNS Cody, my duties include standing watch, planning all voyages, maintaining the navigation equipment and chart portfolio, along with ensuring everything remains current and up to date. Additionally, in the absence of an operations chief, I have assumed several duties, such as drafting message traffic.
How proud are you to serve in a leadership position aboard USNS Cody?
Pliksnys: I am extremely proud to be one of the leaders aboard USNS Cody. In the past year, I’ve had the privilege to not only work with so many talented crew members but also train and mentor them. To see them grow into better mariners is very rewarding.
What’s next for you as a CIVMAR?
Pliksnys: At present, becoming a more skilled navigator is important to me. Therefore, over the next year or so, I will continue to apply constant learning to my everyday practice. After that, I will begin pursuing the required courses and obtaining the specific certifications to be qualified as a chief mate.
What would you tell anyone interested in serving aboard an MSC vessel?
Pliksnys: If anyone is interested in serving aboard an MSC ship, I would encourage them to just do it without any hesitation. Sailing might seem like a big change, and it is, but it's a good one you'll never regret. This career choice completely changed my life, unlocking possibilities I never imagined–not even in my dreams.
What do you enjoy most about working for MSC?
Pliksnys: What I enjoy the most about working for MSC is the chance to meet and befriend people from diverse backgrounds, which gives me new perspectives, challenges my stereotypes, and helps me to lead a richer, more fulfilling life.
What has been your favorite MSC memory?
Pliksnys: My favorite MSC memory is when we threw a surprise retirement party for an awesome Chief Steward. Since he always took such good care of the crew, we wanted to return the favor and do something to show our appreciation for his kindness. The night ended with us presenting him with a special shadow box that held the ship’s coin and the American flag from his last underway mission.
How do you support MSC's mission?
Pliksnys: I keep the navigation department ready, so that the ship can get underway from anywhere, at any time to support the Navy’s warfighting mission.