VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Chief Petty Officer Jamie Bowman, a native of Las Vegas, Nevada, 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 |
Bowman graduated from Eldorado High School in 2008.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Las Vegas.
“I learned that it’s important to work harder than anyone else because there's always going to be people who challenge you in a good way,” said Bowman. "It's important to stay ahead with changing technology to remain relevant."
Bowman joined the Navy 15 years ago. Today, Bowman serves as an aviation electronics technician.
“I joined the Navy out of patriotism,” said Bowman. "9/11 really impacted my view of 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.
Bowman 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."
Bowman has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy was making the rank of chief petty officer,” said Bowman. "Making this rank was the result of a lot of hard work. I see this as a production of my mentors who poured a lot into my growth. Now, I have the opportunity to help others in their own growth."
Bowman can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy is a privilege that very few Americans are qualified and willing to do,” said Bowman. "It's an honor to represent my country and my Navy. It's important to help others who are making their own contribution to serve."
Bowman is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I'd like to thank my mom, Wendy Martinez, for letting me leave home and trusting me to join the Navy,” said Bowman. "I appreciate her support at every stage of my career. She's always there for moral support and occasionally watches my dogs during deployments. She's a great dog grandma."
“I want to send a shoutout to retired senior chief, Tommie Hayes, for laying the foundation and leadership that continues to serve me today,” added Bowman."He was my NJROTC instructor in high school."