VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Airman Tamia Smith, a native of Columbus, Georgia, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, which operates the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet.
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| Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Adriones Johnson |
Smith graduated from Hardaway High School in 2021.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Columbus.
“My hometown taught me to be a more caring person,” said Smith. “Before I joined the Navy, I was a nursing assistant. I think the amount of empathy that job demanded translated nicely to my Navy duties.”
Smith joined the Navy two years ago.
“I joined the Navy to be a better example to my sisters,” said Smith. “I wanted a better work ethic and I wanted to be a better leader.”
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.
Smith 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.”
Smith has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is being able to watch my peers grow as people,” said Smith. “Thanks to the Navy, I am in a position to encourage others.”
Smith can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy gives me the opportunity to improve it through leading by example,” said Smith. “I am always putting my best foot forward.”
Smith is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my mom, Tia, and my grandma, Sheila,” said Smith. “They both help me mentally, especially while I am on a ship.”
Smith offered encouragement to anyone considering a path in the Navy.
“Do not be scared to join the Navy,” added Smith. “Service can make you the best version of yourself.”