VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Petty Officer 1st Class Devan Clervil, a native of Buffalo, New York, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, which operates the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet.
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Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Klineizquierdo |
Clervil graduated from City Honors High School in 1998.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Buffalo.
“My hometown taught me perseverance,” said Clervil. "I was taught to push through and face challenges."
Clervil joined the Navy 23 years ago. Today, Clervil serves as a hospital corpsman.
“I joined because I felt like I needed a change of pace and a new way of life,” said Clervil. "I wanted a career not just a job."
The Super Hornet is one of the most advanced aircraft in the world, according to Navy officials. The aircraft take off from and land aboard Navy aircraft carriers at sea and are capable of conducting air-to-air combat as well as striking targets on land.
Navy aircraft carriers are designed for a 50-year service life. When the air wing is embarked, the ship carries more than 70 attack fighter jets, helicopters and other aircraft, all of which take off from and land aboard the carrier at sea. With more than 5,000 sailors serving aboard, the aircraft carrier is a self-contained mobile airport.
Aircraft carriers are often the first response to a global crisis because of their ability to operate freely in international waters anywhere on the world’s oceans.
With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Clervil serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation's prosperity and security.
"We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day," said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. "Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs."
Clervil has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is saving lives as a hospital corpsman and a substance abuse counselor,” said Clervil. "I pride myself in coaching and mentorship. There are several lives that I have saved through interactions and mentorship."
Clervil can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy gives me a sense of pride for my country,” said Clervil. "Serving also allows me to give my children an example to live by. They can see strength, pride and what sacrifices you have to make to be successful."
Clervil is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank Mr. James Duggan, one of my teachers, along with my family and friends,” said Clervil. "They have all supported me and inspired me to dream bigger."
“Although we were in these uniforms, it is important to remember we are all human beings,” added Clervil. "Remember that we all affect one another, and we can make an impact on each other's lives."
Clervil is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank Mr. James Duggan, one of my teachers, along with my family and friends,” said Clervil. "They have all supported me and inspired me to dream bigger."
“Although we were in these uniforms, it is important to remember we are all human beings,” added Clervil. "Remember that we all affect one another, and we can make an impact on each other's lives."