VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Petty Officer 2nd Class Gabrealle Melton, a native of De Soto, Missouri, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to 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 |
Melton graduated from De Soto High School in 2020.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in De Soto.
“My hometown and my parents taught me the importance of a strong work ethic,” said Melton. “Nothing in this world is free. If something was given to you, it was a sacrifice from someone else.”
Melton joined the Navy four years ago. Today, Melton serves as an aviation ordnanceman.
“I joined the Navy for the educational benefits,” said Melton. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted to do something productive.”
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.
Melton 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.”
Melton has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment is being named Petty Officer of the Year in 2023,” said Melton. “I have been afforded so many opportunities here. I get to teach junior sailors and be someone they can look up to.”
Melton can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means everything to me,” said Melton. “You have to make sacrifices. It's not always easy, but it is always worth it.”
Melton is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my parents, Beth and Shane,” added Melton. “I would also like to thank my mentors Chief Hunter, Chief Blackburn, Gunner Krainski and Gunner Pome'e. They taught me everything I know. I wouldn’t be where I am without them.”