VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Cmdr. Michael Farley, a native of Danville, Virginia, serves as the commanding officer of the U.S. Navy’s Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 81, 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 |
Farley graduated from Westover High School in 2002. Additionally, Farley graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2006 with a degree in mechanical engineering.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Danville.
“I had a teacher in high school, Donna Adams, who taught us attention to detail,” said Farley. "She challenged me to do my best. Her scrutiny and high standards helped me in my job in the Navy. Growing up in a small town, there are many challenges which make us stronger."
Farley joined the Navy 18 years ago and credits a relative for influencing his decision to join.
“I have an older cousin, Lt. Cmdr. Robert Scearce, who was a surface warfare officer during Operation Desert Storm,” said Farley. "Watching his involvement in that conflict and his career afterward had a big influence on me joining the Navy."
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.
Farley 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."
Farley has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I'm most proud of my time here as the commander of VFA 81,” said Farley. "The level of responsibility and trust that the Navy places in a commanding officer is humbling and inspiring at the same time. I'm grateful for the opportunity to contribute to our nation's success in this capacity."
Farley can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means taking pride in the fact that the things that I do contribute to a higher purpose than just my own,” added Farley. "You're a part of something meaningful and enduring."