VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Petty Officer 3rd Class Jeffrey Hilton, a native of Chicago, 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 |
Hilton graduated from Creekside High School in 2021.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Chicago.
“Growing up, I learned the importance of respecting others,” said Hilton. "Respecting people in the military wasn't hard for me because I was taught to respect others when I was growing up."
Hilton joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Hilton serves as a yeoman.
“I joined the Navy for college benefits,” said Hilton. "I didn't want my parents paying for college. I wanted to earn the money for college on my own, and the military has some great educational benefits."
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.
Hilton 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."
Hilton has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I earned Sailor of the Quarter in 2022,” said Hilton. "I am proud of that because it showed that all the hard work was paying off."
Hilton can take pride in serving America through military service.
“It's important to me to do the best you can regardless of what job you're assigned,” said Hilton. "I plan to make a career out of the Navy."
Hilton is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I'd like to thank my mom, Yolanda Starks, and my dad, Jeffrey Hilton,” added Hilton. "They made me the man I am today."