By Megan Brown, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MILLINGTON, Tenn. - A Hayward, California, native is serving aboard USS Essex, a U.S. Navy Wasp class amphibious assault ship.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Glover Jovan is a 2017 Mt. Eden High School graduate. Today, Jovan serves as a yeoman responsible for being an administrative expert.
Jovan joined the Navy for the opportunities serving provides.
According to Jovan, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Hayward.
"Hayward taught me to stand up for myself," said Jovan.
Homeported in San Diego, California, USS Essex is the second ship in the Wasp-class of multipurpose amphibious assault ships and the fifth ship named for Essex County, Massachusetts. Essex was a 1000-ton ironclad river gunboat of the U.S. Army and later U.S. Navy during the American Civil War.
According to Navy officials, amphibious assault ships are designed to deliver U.S. Marines and their equipment where they are needed to support a variety of missions ranging from amphibious assaults to humanitarian relief efforts. Designed to be versatile, the ship has the option of simultaneously using helicopters, Harrier jets, and Landing Craft Air Cushioned, as well as conventional landing craft and assault vehicles in various combinations.
"I like serving here because there are people who come from all different walks of life," said Jovan.
Though there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Jovan is most proud of quickly being promoted to petty officer second class.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Jovan, 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.
"Serving in the Navy means working towards a greater cause than myself," added Jovan.