VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Petty Officer 1st Class James Weatherston, a native of Grand Island, 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 3rd Class Jerome Fjeld |
Weatherston graduated from Grand Island High School in 2006.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Grand Island.
“My hometown taught me to take opportunities when they come up,” said Weatherston. "There are not a lot of jobs in my hometown, so you have to be able to take those opportunities when they arise."
Weatherston joined the Navy 15 years ago. Today, Weatherston serves as an aviation machinist's mate.
“I joined the Navy to find better opportunities,” said Weatherston. "I also wanted to get out of the house and travel the world."
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.
Weatherston 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."
Weatherston has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is being able to persevere through my entire career,” said Weatherston. "I've been in for 15 years and I will be able to retire honorably."
Weatherston can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy gives me job security,” said Weatherston. "It is a good way to support my family."
Weatherston is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my dad, Mark, my mom, Pattie, and my siblings, Chris and Amanda,” said Weatherston. "I would also like to thank my husband, Nicholas, and son, Parker. They have all unconditionally supported me through six deployments."
Weatherston offered some words of advice for future generations.
“Don’t be scared of the unknown,” added Weatherston. “If you have an opportunity in front of you, seize it.”