SAN DIEGO - Petty Officer 2nd Class Colby Brown, a native of Warner Robins, Georgia, serves aboard USS Jack H. Lucas, a U.S. Navy warship operating out of San Diego, California.
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Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joseph Sitter, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West |
Brown graduated from Houston County High School in 2020.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Warner Robins.
“I learned from back home how to take things one step at a time,” Brown said. "It's easy to overwhelm yourself with all that is required of you in the Navy. However, taking things one step at a time allows you to endure daunting tasks. I also learned growing up the importance of honesty. Honesty is always prioritized and goes a long way in the Navy.”
Brown joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Brown serves as an information systems technician.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted the opportunity to travel,” Brown said. "I grew up in a smaller town and I wanted to experience more of what the world had to offer. So far, the Navy has provided me the opportunity to see San Diego, Hawaii and other parts of the world I wouldn't have imagined. Doing that while serving and developing professionally has been a dream come true."
Jack H. Lucas is named for Marine Corps Pfc. Jack Lucas, who served in the Marines during World War II and earned the Medal of Honor for his heroism at the Battle of Iwo Jima after saving the lives of three Marines when he was just 17 years old. Lucas is the youngest Marine, and the youngest service member in World War II, to be awarded the United States’ highest military honor for valor.
Jack H. Lucas is a Navy destroyer, a multi-mission ship that can operate independently or as part of a larger group of ships at sea. The ship is equipped with tomahawk missiles, torpedoes, guns and a phalanx close-in weapons system.
More than 300 sailors serve aboard USS Jack H. Lucas. Their jobs are highly specialized, requiring both dedication and skill. The jobs range from maintaining engines to handling weaponry along with a multitude of other assignments that keep the ship mission-ready at all times, according to Navy officials.
The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
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.
Brown has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“My proudest moment is commissioning this ship,” Brown said. "Seeing the collaborative effort we made to get this ship out here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. When I reflect on my time in the Navy, it is reassuring knowing I'll get to see the ship out there serving this country and knowing that I helped make that possible."
Brown serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“Serving in the Navy means being a part of something bigger than myself,” Brown said. "Growing up, I wasn't a part of any organizations or teams. The Navy has allowed me to join a team and go outside my comfort zone. If it wasn't for the Navy, I wouldn't have a promising career or the experiences I’ve had today. The Navy also allows me to feel a sense of purpose every day. Growing up, you see these movies highlighting military careers and I never imagined I would've had the opportunity to visit those places or do those things. It has been a rewarding experience every step of the way. The people I have met along the way have broadened my perspectives and I have had the opportunity to make friends with people across the world. I wouldn't change it for the world.”
Brown is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I would like to thank my mom and dad,” Brown added. "They inspired me to push myself and they pushed me to pursue a more fulfilling career. My teachers also provided the resources needed to be where I am today. I want to thank my grandpa as well for telling me his Army stories and for pushing me to choose the Navy. Lastly, I want to thank my parents, grandparents and entire family for supporting me every step of the way."