MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Ensign Chauncey Kimmons, a native of New Albany, Mississippi, recently graduated from the U.S. Navy's Officer Candidate School (OCS) on March 8.
Kimmons, a graduate of New Albany High School, joined the Navy 11 years ago.
"I joined the Navy to provide a better future for my family," said Kimmons. "The idea of being associated with something much larger than myself, allowed me to exhibit loyalty to my country and family."
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in New Albany.
"Without question, hard work pays off," said Kimmons. "Pushing myself past my own limits results in increased teaching and perseverance."
OCS is one of four officer accession programs operating at Officer Training Command Newport. This is the final step in a sailor’s transition into the Naval Officer Corps. This course is comprehensive, intense and designed to reinforce understanding of the responsibilities of a naval officer.
Prior to joining OCS, Kimmons was an enlisted petty officer first class serving as a personnel specialist responsible for maintaining sailors' finances and service records.
"I decided to apply to OCS to be the role model/example that my family, friends and other sailors could learn and benefit from," said Kimmons. "Graduating from OCS will be the pinnacle of my career thus far. With increased mental preparation and readiness, I can encourage others to maximize their potential and escalate their careers."
Located in Newport, Rhode Island, OCS is designed to provide newly commissioned Navy officers with the basic information required to understand Naval culture. It prepares officers to become effective leaders by developing fundamental skills in leadership, written and oral communication, career management and administration.
Kimmons has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
"My proudest accomplishment is striving to promote mental toughness throughout the Navy," added Kimmons. "That's where it all starts. Eighty-five percent of my day is helping others. The other fifteen percent is dedicated to my family. Being a positive influence regardless of the situation, allows me to rest easy while continuing to promote the general welfare of our sailors."
Kimmons serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation's prosperity and security.