From the U-S Navy:
Nineteen years ago, Senior Chief Petty Officer Adam Vernon joined the Navy because he was looking for an opportunity beyond college. Today, Vernon is serving aboard USS Boxer, stationed in San Diego.
Vernon is a mass communication specialist responsible for managing public relations for the ship and leading sailors as a senior chief petty officer. “I like the freedom this job allows us to have,” said Vernon. “There’s a lot of room for creativity.” Vernon is a 1999 King George High School graduate.
“Going to high school in King George, I learned the importance of taking care of people,” said Vernon. “Growing up in a diverse place helped because the Navy is a very diverse place with people from all around the world.”
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
Boxer is an amphibious assault ship that has recently returned from a Western Pacific-Indian Ocean-Persian Gulf deployment. It is the sixth ship to carry the name Boxer.
Amphibious assault ships are used to transfer Marines, equipment and supplies and can support helicopters or other aircraft. They also are capable of accessing 75% of the world’s beaches.
According to Admiral Mike Gilday, the Chief of Naval Operations, the focus of today’s Navy is squarely on warfighting, warfighters and the capabilities needed for the Navy of the future.
“I am confident we will maximize the Navy we have today while delivering the Navy that our nation will rely upon tomorrow,” said Gilday. “And we will do so with urgency. Our fleet will be a potent, formidable force that competes around the world every day, deterring those who would challenge us while reassuring our allies and partners.”
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers. Vernon is most proud of his time teaching sailors at the Defense Information School.
“Seeing sailors succeed and knowing that I may have played a small part in that success means a lot to me,” said Vernon.
For Vernon, serving in the Navy is a tradition passed down from generations and one Vernon hopes to continue.
“My dad retired from the Navy, and my brother is currently in the Navy,” said Vernon. “They were both submariners. When I made Chief, it was the same year that my brother made Chief. It was then that I noticed how proud my father was, and it was a very inspiring moment in my life.”
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Vernon, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“No matter what happens in life, I’ll always know that I did my part to serve my country while providing for my family,” said Vernon.
