Happy 246th Birthday to the United States Navy! To celebrate, Warrior Foundation Freedom Station asked two incredible sailors to share their thoughts on what it has meant to be part of America's maritime service branch.
“I joined the Navy to follow in the footsteps of my dad, who had served in the early 1980s. I never thought it would become a career, but I continue serving today to mentor and lead junior sailors! The Navy has shown me that no matter what, someone is always there to help and support you. I’ll reach my 12-year mark in the Navy next month and am honored to continue my service to our country. I thank those who have served before me and those who continue to serve alongside me. Happy Birthday Navy!”
- Sandra Baldwin, Aviation Ordnanceman First Class Petty Officer, U.S. Navy
“I joined the United States Navy in August of 2000. A third-generation sailor, I chose to enlist and serve my country like my father and grandfather. My intention was to serve a four-year term, then enroll in college, but life had other plans for me. As a Navy sailor, the intense training, impactful education and worldwide travel have molded and shaped me into the man I am today. While that has not come without serious sacrifice, I am grateful for my current 21 years of service to my country. Service, to me, is not just about putting others before oneself. It’s about joining an organization that shares those same values. Whether positive or negative, my experiences as a service member have all been memorable. I am grateful for the moments in my life, whether it be underwater training, combat medicine or foreign travel, that would not have been possible without my commitment to the Navy.”
- Brandon Berry, Senior Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Navy
*The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
